The Arunachal Pradesh government has approved the resumption of weekly markets across the state. The decision, announced by the state home department on Saturday, comes with a comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the safe, organised, and effective functioning of these vital market spaces.Weekly markets have long served as a lifeline for Arunachal Pradesh’s agrarian communities, allowing farmers to directly sell their produce, artisans to showcase their goods, and small traders to earn their livelihoods. Their suspension in recent times had not only disrupted local trade but also strained the income of many rural families.
With the fresh approval, these markets are now set to return with regulated guidelines aimed at streamlining operations and maintaining public order. According to the official notification, the SOP will cover aspects such as vendor registration, hygiene maintenance, crowd control, and designated timings. Local authorities have also been instructed to ensure proper sanitation and waste disposal mechanisms at all market sites. Deputy Commissioners of all districts have received strict directions to enforce the SOPs effectively. The home department has made it clear that any lapses in compliance will be taken seriously, emphasising the need for discipline and structure in these economic gatherings.
Significantly, the permission granted for reopening weekly markets will remain valid for a period of one year. During this time, authorities will closely monitor implementation on the ground. A detailed review will be undertaken at the end of the term to assess whether the resumption has indeed translated into meaningful economic benefits, especially for the farming community.“This is not just about markets reopening. It’s about restoring a vital system of economic exchange for our rural population. Farmers need avenues to sell their produce without middlemen. This initiative gives them that opportunity,” a senior official from the state agriculture department said.
