Affiliated to University of Calcutta
Re-accredited by NAAC in 2021 with 'A' Grade (4th Cycle)
ISO 9001:2015 Certified
College with Potential for Excellence
On 24th February 2026, the Department of Economics, Loreto College, Kolkata conducted a field survey at Kalagachia, a villages adopted by the institution at Paschim Barisha, Thakurpukur in South 24 Paraganas district. The primary objective of the visit was to undertake a small scale primary survey on the livelihood status and economic conditions of informal sector workers and develop practical exposure to field based economic research. The survey was carried out under the supervision of Dr. Rupa Ghosh and Dr. Mainak Bhattacharjee.
During the survey, students interacted with individuals engaged in diverse informal occupations, including small shop owners, vegetable and fish vendors, and mushroom cultivators. These interactions enabled the students to understand the functioning of the informal sector at the grassroots level and gather first-hand information regarding income levels, sources of livelihood, saving and borrowing behaviour, market conditions and the challenges faced by workers in the informal economy. The survey was conducted in teams of five students, encouraging collaborative work and systematic data collection. Faculty supervisors guided the students throughout the process, ensuring clarity and effective communication with respondents.
Learning outcomes:
● Practical understanding of the informal sector through first-hand exposure to the livelihood patterns and economic realities beyond textbook knowledge.
● Direct interaction with respondents helped students enhance their communication abilities.
● Hands-on research experience familiarised students with survey methods, questionnaire administration and real-time data collection.
● Working in small groups strengthened collaborative skills and improved the ability to conduct structured fieldwork.
The field survey proved to be a highly enriching academic experience, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application while significantly contributing to building essential skills and deeper socio-economic understanding among students.
