In a major step to boost rural entrepreneurship, local tourism, and micro industries in Assam’s Barpeta district, the Government of Assam in collaboration with the Barpeta District Administration has unveiled a first-of-its-kind shopping destination—“Barpeta Hub”—situated at the Industrial Estate, Sonkuchi, in the heart of Barpeta town.
The marketplace was inaugurated on April 28 and is now open to the public, offering a curated experience for tourists visiting the iconic Barpeta Satra, as well as a permanent platform for promoting the district’s celebrated indigenous products.
A Hub Rooted in Tradition and Opportunity
The Barpeta Hub features 16 dedicated stalls operated by selected cooperative societies from the region, each showcasing Barpeta’s unique craftsmanship and cultural heritage—from Sarthebari’s GI-tagged bell and brass metalworks to Assamese jewellery, handloom and embroidery items, cane and bamboo furniture, Barpeta’s traditional fireworks (Atasbazi), agarbatti (incense sticks), toiletries, and agro-based products.
Speaking exclusively to Business North East, Pranjan Rajmedhi, General Manager (i/c) of the District Industries and Commerce Centre (DICC), Barpeta, explained the genesis of the project.
“In 2022, as we were shifting our DICC office to a new building, the idea emerged—why not transform the unused old DICC structure into something productive that could benefit the local economy? That’s when the plan for Barpeta Hub was born,” he said.
Rajmedhi added that the initiative is aimed at empowering MSMEs through cooperative participation, ensuring that local artisans and micro-entrepreneurs gain consistent market access.
“Barpeta is known for its rich cultural products, but there was no centralized place where tourists or buyers could see everything at once. This hub fills that gap—it’s not just a market, it's an experience,” he noted.
Manjuwarrah Mullah, a local entrepreneur and owner of the handicraft brand Amrapari, operates one of the stalls in the hub. She call this initiative a game-changer.
“We were allotted the space in the old DICC building, which had been lying idle. Now, with proper renovation and structured planning, it’s becoming a cultural and commercial center. As many people come to visit the Barpeta Satra, they can now stop by here for a complete shopping experience,” said Mullah.
She envisions the hub becoming a one-stop mall for cultural shopping, where tourists can browse, experience, and buy authentic Assamese products directly from the makers.
A Platform for Recognition
Among the featured artisans is Haridas Das, who was recently honored as “Assam Gaurav 2024” for his exemplary work in metalcraft. Das has also set up a stall at the hub, displaying handcrafted bell metal and brass artifacts that continue to draw appreciation from locals and visitors alike.
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What Lies Ahead
According to DICC officials, this is only the beginning. The administration plans to introduce additional amenities including a café, a children’s park, and improved landscaping to make the hub more tourist-friendly. The aim is to develop the space as a must-visit cultural-commercial zone that complements religious tourism at Barpeta Satra.
“We’re already seeing interest from various government departments, tour operators, and hospitality groups who want to include the Barpeta Hub in their tourist itineraries,” Rajmedhi added.
The cooperative stalls will pay a nominal monthly rent, creating a self-sustaining model that supports local livelihoods while offering high-quality traditional products to the public.
Promoting ‘Vocal for Local’ in Aspirational Districts
This initiative aligns with NITI Aayog’s Aspirational Districts Programme and the Government of Assam’s broader “Vocal for Local” campaign. By turning government infrastructure into a vibrant business space, Barpeta is setting an example for other districts to follow.
“This is more than commerce—it’s about culture, identity, and empowerment,” said a senior official from the Industries & Commerce Department.
With the festive season and tourist inflow peaking during spring and early summer, the Barpeta Hub is poised to emerge as a go-to destination for cultural shopping, gift selection, and a wholesome tourism experience in Lower Assam.
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