7th NCERT Social Science Chapter 7

Things are cheap in the weekly market because shop owners do not incur the same level of expenses as permanent shops – they do not have to pay rent, electricity, government fees, or worker wages. Additionally, there is competition among the traders in weekly markets which keeps prices low.

One advantage of weekly markets is that most things one needs are available in one place, offering a variety of goods like vegetables, groceries, clothing, and utensils. Another advantage is the choice and variety of goods available, eliminating the need to visit different areas for different items.

Sujata carried a notebook to note down the amount of purchases made, which was also noted by the shopkeeper in her big register. This system is useful for keeping track of purchases and amounts owed, ensuring clarity in transactions. However, there could be problems such as loss of the notebook or disputes over the amounts noted.

Goods sold in permanent shops are costlier because shop owners in permanent establishments incur higher expenses such as rent, electricity, government fees, and worker wages. In contrast, traders in weekly markets or roadside hawkers operate with lower overhead costs, leading to cheaper prices for their goods.

Apart from weekly markets, the chapter also discusses markets in neighbourhoods and shopping complexes/malls. Neighbourhood markets consist of permanent shops and roadside stalls selling various goods and services near homes. Shopping complexes and malls in urban areas are large multi-storeyed buildings with a variety of shops, offering both branded and non-branded goods.