Salt Trade in Goalpara District During Colonial Period

Abstract

Salt is an essential commodity for human beings, and its demand has been increasing in the markets since the early days. There was no information regarding salt production in Assam during the precolonial and colonial periods. On the other hand, small salt brines existed in places like Sadiya, Burhat and Naga hills, but they were unaffordable. At that time, people used Khar, the burn ashes of certain trees which produced a salty taste instead of ready-made salt. The salt became a symbol of wealth which helped people maintain a high status in the society of Assam as well as in the Goalpara district. The salt of Bengal became very famous because of its affordability—its supply was also available at Goalpara in the colonial period. Thus, Goalpara became the centre of salt trade of the north-eastern frontier countries. This article will attempt to highlight the salt trade and its significance in the colonial period.