DIMAPUR: The Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) Chümoukedima, in collaboration with North East Network (NEN), observed International Street Vendors Day 2026 under the theme, “Climate-Resilient Markets, Stronger Voices”, at the DC’s Conference Hall, Chümoukedima, on November 12, according to a DIPR report.
Addressing the gathering, EAC, Chümoukedima, Er. Khriengunuo Theunuo, acknowledged the contribution of street vendors to the local economy, describing them as micro-entrepreneurs and an integral part of the town’s urban economy.
She stressed the need to ensure dignity, security and better opportunities for vendors while recognising their role in providing essential goods and services.
She highlighted the provisions of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, and the State Vending Rules, stating that efforts were being made to protect registered vendors from arbitrary eviction and harassment.
On financial empowerment, she highlighted the PM SVANidhi scheme, which provides collateral-free working capital loans to street vendors, and the SVANidhi Se Samriddhi initiative, which aims to connect vendor families with social security benefits, including health insurance, life cover and food security.
Speaking on “Why Climate-Resilient Markets Matter”, State Project Coordinator, SEWA Nagaland, Temjenlemla, highlighted how extreme heat, heavy rainfall and inadequate market facilities affect the health, safety and livelihoods of street vendors.
She stressed the need for safe vending spaces, clean drinking water and proper sanitation facilities.
She also underscored the importance of strengthening Town Vending Committees (TVCs) and ensuring their effective functioning under the Nagaland Street Vendors Rules, 2019.
President, SEWA Nagaland, Atoli, highlighted the everyday challenges faced by women vendors while working in extreme heat. She also expressed concern over the continued inactivity of the TVC and called for its effective functioning to address vendors’ grievances.
A short video highlighting the challenges faced by street vendors due to climate change was also screened.
During the open dialogue session, “Three Priorities, One Shared Way Forward”, vendors raised concerns over access to PM SVANidhi, issuance of Street Vendor ID cards, functioning of the TVC and waste management at North Town Bazaar.
Clarifications were also sought on the requirement for vendors to possess both a Street Vendor ID card and a trade licence.
Officials of Chümoukedima Town Council (CTC) encouraged vendors to practise waste segregation and follow the scheduled timings of waste collection vehicles, while acknowledging the need for greater awareness.
The need for safe drinking water stations at Thepfu Market and North Town Bazaar was also highlighted.
The programme focused on the challenges faced by women street vendors due to rising temperatures and extreme heat, and the need to make local markets safer, more inclusive and climate-resilient.
It was attended by women street vendors, representatives of CTC, district administration and other stakeholders.
