ARCHIVES
VOL. 12, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Structure and functioning of periodic markets in Assam: A case study of Behora Market
Authors
Dr. Bidyut Jyoti Kalita
Abstract
Periodic rural markets, locally known as haats
or bazaars, constitute a vital component of the rural economy and social life
in India. In Assam, these markets play a particularly significant role in
sustaining agrarian livelihoods by facilitating the exchange of agricultural
produce, household goods, and traditional crafts. The present study examines
agricultural marketing practices in Behora Weekly Market, located in Golaghat
district of Assam, with the objective of understanding the structure of participation,
nature of goods traded, income patterns, and customer motivations. The study
adopts a descriptive approach and is based on primary data collected from
vendors and consumers operating in the market. Findings
reveal that the market hosts a heterogeneous group of participants, including
primary producer-vendors, retail traders, intermediary sellers, and traditional
artisans, alongside a predominantly rural consumer base comprising local
households, small eatery owners, and visitors from nearby villages and tea
garden areas. The vendor profile indicates male dominance, with most traders
belonging to the economically active age group and possessing moderate levels
of education and business experience. Fresh vegetables and fruits emerge as the
most widely traded commodities, followed by fish and meat, spices, garments,
and handicrafts, generating varying levels of daily income. The product
composition reflects both daily necessities and seasonal demand, supported by
local farms, nearby districts, and external wholesale centers.Customer
motivation analysis highlights the availability of fresh produce and
competitive pricing as primary factors attracting visitors, supplemented by
social interaction, access to indigenous products, and traditional market
habits. Overall, the study underscores the continued economic, social, and
cultural relevance of periodic rural markets in Assam’s agricultural marketing
system and rural livelihood framework.
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Pages:39-41
How to cite this article:
Dr. Bidyut Jyoti Kalita "Structure and functioning of periodic markets in Assam: A case study of Behora Market". National Journal of Advanced Research, Vol 12, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 39-41
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