ECONOMIC IMPLICATION OF WEEKLY MARKET PARTICIPATION: A CASE STUDY OF FARMERS CUM SELLERS IN GARO HILLS OF MEGHALAYA

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the economic impacts of the weekly market participation by farmers cum sellers in their livelihood. Data were collected from farmers cum sellers who participated in the weekly markets located in Garo Hills region of Meghalaya state in India. Altogether 530 farmers (5 farmers each from 106 weekly markets) participated in the interview process through semi structured schedule for collecting the data. ANOVA and Chi Square test were used to analyse the data. Findings indicate that farmers participating in the weekly markets by selling their agricultural products; are able to earn a sustainable income for their livelihood. With their continuous participation in the weekly markets, their economic status of their family is also improved.