The Biobrio 13(1 & 2), 2026

Fish marketing system in Patna, Bihar: A socioeconomic analysis of constraints, channel efficiency, and management strategies

Pooja Kumari, Aryan Raj & Dileep Kumar

ABSTRACT:

Fish marketing has played a vital role as an influential indicator in terms of returns, nutrition and efficient operation of the supply chain of inland fisheries. This study examined the fish marketing system of Patna district, Bihar, by considering the socioeconomic profile of the market actors, prevailing marketing channels, functioning constraints and possible measures for improvement. For this purpose, a multistage stratified random sample of one hundred respondents, such as wholesalers, semi-wholesalers, retailers, and consumers, was selected from seven big fish markets, namely, Rajapul fish market, Bazar Samiti fish market, Musallahpur Hat fish market, Bhikhna Pahari fish market, Machhua Toli fish market, Patna City fish market, and Kumharar fish market. using a pre-tested interview schedule in May-June 2026. The analysis of results indicated that the fish marketing system in Patna is still operating in an unorganised way where market actors include multiple intermediary layers, widening the producer priceconsumer price differences with an extent to the tune of four-fold. The greatest constraints to fish marketing in Patna market were found to be inadequate post-harvest cold chain infrastructure (Garrett's Rank I), lack of proper sanitation of markets (Rank II) and poor transport network (Rank III). SWOT analysis revealed huge potential for the digital market and a cooperative marketing approach. Site-specific cold storages, establishment of cooperative and digital marketing networks in the markets, improved infrastructure and more institutional intervention under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) should be made available.

Keywords:    

Fish marketing; supply chain; Garrett's ranking; SWOT analysis; cold chain; PMMSY; Patna.

Full Text