Author:

Khagesh Singha
1
Independent Research Scholar
Department of History
University of North Bengal
Darjeeling, West Bengal,India

Email: khageshsingha2@gmail.com

Abstract::Abstract:The present paper aims to highlight the contribution of the Haats-Bazars to the economic
development of Islampur Subdivision under Uttar Dinajpur district during the colonial period. The main
livelihood of the people of this area were agriculture and animal husbandry. Haats-Bazars of immense
importance in the economy of any area. The initiative of Jotdars or Zamindars and others in establishing
these Haats-Bazars were immense. The people of this area used to sell various agricultural crops as well as
handicrafts in Haats-Bazars. Traders used to buy various goods, animals, handicrafts from Haats-Bazars,
export these to others states and country. During the Mughal and British period, Haats-Bazars were
established in various places in the present Islampur subdivision. Such as – Sonapur Haat, Kanchakali Haat,
Chopra Haat, Daspara Haat, Dhanir Haat, Lakshmipur Haat, Islampur Haat, Ramganj Haat, Dimtu Haat,
Matikhunda Haat, Kalanagin Haat, Panjipara Haat, Debiganj Haat, Sahapur Haat, Goda Haat, Chakulia
Haat, Kanki Haat, Manora Haat, Gandal Haat etc. Haats-Bazars are held on fixed days twice or three a week.
The past history of the current Islampur subdivision is entirely centered on Purnea district of Bihar. On 1
November,1956, this subdivision was merged to West Bengal. For this reason this subdivision is known as the
‘Transferred Area.’ During the Mughal period this area was a part of the Surjapur pargana which was
occupied by the British in 1770 AD.

Key Words::Islampur Subdivision, Purnea, Kishanganj, Haats-Bazars, Sonapur, Sahapur etc.