Marketing Status of Fermented Fish Products (Sheedal) in Tripura: An Empirical Market Assessment

Akash Debnath, Dr. L. Surulivel

Abstract: Fermented fish products are important components of the food culture and economy of Tripura, but quantitative information on their production and marketing remains limited. A market assessment was conducted in Teliamura, Maharajganj, and Battala to examine production, raw-material sourcing, pricing, and market characteristics of major fermented fish products, including Puti sheedal (Puntius sphore), Phasa sheedal (Setipinna phasa), and Lona ilish (salt-fermented Hilsa ilisha). The survey identified 51 registered Sheedal production units in Tripura and approximately 1,300 MT of reported annual production in 2023. Teliamura emerged as the principal production centre, with substantial processing activity and an estimated annual turnover of approximately Rs. 100 crore. RCBD ANOVA indicated a significant market effect on wholesale prices after accounting for product differences (F = 5.06; df = 2,8; p = 0.038). In contrast, retail prices between Maharajganj and Battala did not differ significantly in the paired comparison (t = -1.09; df = 4; p = 0.337). The sector is economically important but remains constrained by dependence on external raw-material sources, seasonal variation, limited standardization of processing and storage, and inadequate packaging and organized marketing. Strengthening local supply chains and improving hygienic processing, packaging, and marketing could enhance the commercial potential of Sheedal in Tripura.

Keywords: Sheedal, fermented fish, Tripura, market assessment, price analysis, Puntius sphore, Setipinna phasa

How to Cite?: Akash Debnath, Dr. L. Surulivel, "Marketing Status of Fermented Fish Products (Sheedal) in Tripura: An Empirical Market Assessment", Volume 15 Issue 9, September 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 543-547, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26908103603, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26908103603

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