Explore Darangiri market: Asia's largest banana market in Assam

Darangiri Market in Assam is recognised as Asia's largest banana market with a monthly turnover of nearly Rs 4 crore. Located in the Goalpara district, about 110 kilometres from Guwahati, the market operates twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays. 

Bananas from Darangiri are supplied not only within Assam but also to other Indian states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, and to South Asian countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.

The market, managed by the Darangiri Development Committee, currently operates temporarily at a weekly market site as a new facility is under construction. Infrastructure and banking facilities at the market are minimal, and traders from outside the state face difficulties due to the lack of nationalised banks. Despite these challenges, the market sees the sale of 40 to 50 lorries of bananas in a single day.

Local tribal farmers from the Garo hills and nearby areas produce bananas in large quantities and bring them to Darangiri for sale. These farmers often plant banana trees to boost the economy and protect soil from erosion during the rainy season.

Various types of bananas are found in Darangiri Market, including Jahaji, Bar Jahaji, Chenichampa, and Malbhog. The market has seen infrastructure development projects funded by the government, including the construction of godowns and a blocking route at the cost of Rs 1.7 crore under the Assam Darpan Scheme. A larger project costing Rs 9.99 crore is currently underway under the North Eastern Council to improve market facilities.

Also Read: Assam's Charaideo Maidam added to UNESCO World Heritage list as 'Cultural Property'

Despite the lack of a halt station and sufficient banking facilities, the market continues to thrive. Vendors from other states such as Bihar and Jharkhand often stay in rented rooms near the market. The demand for a halt station remains high, with local leaders and traders having protested and lobbied in Delhi for its establishment.

The market continues to be a crucial economic hub, providing livelihood to many, including brokers who buy bananas from farmers in Meghalaya and sell them to businessmen from various states. Buyers from places like Bengal frequently visit the market to purchase bananas, further emphasising its importance in the regional economy.

Speaking to India Today NE, the President, the vendors association Darangiri, Diganta Rabha said, "Darangiri, famous as Asia’s largest banana market was granted some godowns by the Assam government. Former Chief Minister Sarbnanda Sonowal granted Rs. 1 crore 17 lakh rupees for the development of the market under the Assam Darpan scheme. Currently, under NEC Rs 9.99 crore is granted for the development of the market. The main location of the Darangiri market is under construction now and temporarily is shifted to weekly market place".

The president also claimed that during the season, i.e. Vishwa Karma or Chath Puja a large number of vendors from all over India come to the market. Normally 5 to 10 vendors from other parts of India stay permanently near Darangiri. 

In transportation, there is no problem as the vendors do not face any kind of inconvenience. Till now there has been no halt station. 

Visiting Darangiri Market

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings on market days are ideal for experiencing the hustle and bustle.

What to Expect: Visitors can expect a vibrant scene with a sea of bananas and the sounds of active trading. The market is a sensory overload with the smell of ripe bananas and the sounds of haggling and bustling activity.

Darangiri Market is more than just a place of trade; it is a vital part of the region's cultural and economic landscape.