Explore the Jagiroad Dry Fish Market in Assam: Asia's largest hub for traditional sun-dried fish

Nestled in the Morigaon District of Assam, the Jagiroad dry fish market stands as the largest of its kind in Asia, tracing its origins back to the early 1960s. Situated about 50 kilometers from Guwahati, this market is a vital economic hub, operating primarily on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and managing an impressive turnover of approximately 500 tons of dry fish.

The market sources fish from diverse regions across India, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. These dry fish products are then distributed throughout the northeastern states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Sikkim, Nagaland, and Meghalaya.

The fish are preserved using a time-honored method of sun drying, where wind and sun naturally desiccate the fish. This traditional approach not only maintains the quality but also adds a unique flavor and texture cherished by consumers.

Vendors in the market offer over 100 varieties of dry fish, including notable species such as Channa punctatus (Goroi maas), Aorichthys seenghala (Ari maas), Puntius siphore (Puthi maas), and Labeo rohita (Rohu).

The dry fish market operates through a complex chain, beginning with producers and ending with consumers, involving multiple intermediaries who handle production, assembly, lodging, packaging, and transportation. Both freshwater and marine fish are traded, contributing to the diverse offerings of the market.

The market significantly impacts the local economy, employing around 25-30 per cent of the local population. Despite its considerable scale, the market is not subject to GST but contributes to the economy through income tax. According to a local shopkeeper, "We enjoy a lot of profit, as people from various parts of the northeast visit this market."

To cope with seasonal variations, particularly during summer, vendors store dry fish in Meghalaya due to its favorable climate. These stored products are then sold in batches throughout the year. Speaking to India TodayNE, one of the fish sellers said, "During the summer season, we store the dry fish in Meghalaya, due to its climate condition and later sold into batches.’’

The market adheres to a no-waste policy where rejected fish are repurposed into manure and feed for poultry and fish farming, ensuring minimal waste and promoting sustainable practices.

Dried fish, known for its long shelf life, is a rich source of protein, essential fatty acids, and various minerals. Its nutritional value, coupled with its taste and aroma, makes it a popular food item globally.

Spanning an area of 30 acres, the Jagiroad dry fish market remains the sole major industry in the town, continuing to grow and thrive each year, thereby solidifying its role as a cornerstone of the local economy.