Poor road connectivity, less marketing facilities and lack of proper communication system are affecting the lives of many in South Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, one of the most socio-economically backward districts in the state situated along the international Indo-Bangla border.
The border stretches for about 85 km. The main occupation of the local indigenous people is agriculture. However, lack of market linkage facilities is affecting rural households. During the pre-independence period, farmers were prosperous but post partition, things have changed as the flourishing trade of agricultural and horticultural produces came to a standstill. Lack of alternative means of survival has forced a section of people to take up illegal border trade activities which includes selling of fish, poultry, cosmetics, utensils and Chinese electronic gadgets.
In the local markets of Rongara, Siju and Baghmara, Bangladeshi goods are everywhere to be found. The fish and poultry available are also from the neighbouring country. Reported cases of confiscation by security personnel is leading to decline in the trade as traders suffer huge loss with many preferring to discontinue.
However, there is a section of traders who have to engage in this trade for the sole reason of there being no alternative means of survival. The Chinese hybrid fish, soap, potato chips, juices and cosmetics are high in demand here. Traders say that the goods are being brought by traders from Bangladesh illegally crossing the border.
Traders from the other side also take away goods from India like sugar, salt and horticultural produce like fruits. Most electronic goods available here are from China. These are cheap quality electronic gadgets called 'dumped goods' and are sold at higher prices with traders doing good business. The buyers say that the products are good and priceless.
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