Analyzing Origin and Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Rural Markets: A Geographical Study from North India

Mohammad Muqeet Khan Tanveer Asif
DOI:10.46852/2249-6637.04.2022.7

Abstract:

This paper analyzes the genesis and spatiotemporal distribution of selected rural markets. For the study, Aligarh district in the

north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh has been selected as a study area. There are 286 rural markets in the district which are unevenly

distributed over the space. Study is based on secondary sources and data has been collected from the Census of India, District

Census Handbook, and Gazetteer of Aligarh. The analysis made clear that the bulk of the area’s rural markets grew due to the

construction of road networks by the British government and landlords. The geographic distribution of market centers in terms

of time and space is a component of rural markets. The combined effect of physio-cultural characteristics of the specific place

determines market dynamics and their periodicities.

Socio-economic factors played an important role in the emergence of rural markets.
There are 286 rural markets which are distributed over an area of 3,591.82 sq km.
The maximum numbers of rural markets are situated in Tappal block (67), while the minimum numbers are recorded in Akrabad (7).