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 12th November 2026.

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 important part of the town's urban economy. She highlighted the need to ensure dignity, security and better opportunities for street vendors, while also recognising their role in providing essential goods and services to the community.

She informed the gathering about 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 stated the PM SVANidhi scheme, which provides collateral-free working capital loans to street vendors, and the SVANidhi Se Samriddhi initiative, which seeks to link vendor families with social security benefits, including health insurance, life cover and food security. She encouraged vendors who had not yet registered for vendor identity cards or availed benefits under PM SVANidhi to approach Chümoukedima Town Council for assistance.

She also urged the vendors to work alongside the administration in keeping vending areas clean, plastic-free and safe for pedestrians and traffic, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining orderly and hygienic markets.

Speaking on the topic “Why Climate-Resilient Markets Matter,” State Project Coordinator, SEWA Nagaland, Temjenlemla explained how extreme heat, heavy rainfall and poor market facilities affect the health, safety and livelihoods of street vendors. She highlighted the need for safe vending spaces, access to clean drinking water, and proper sanitation facilities. She also mentioned the importance of strengthening Town Vending Committees (TVCs) and ensuring their effective functioning under the Nagaland Street Vendors Rules, 2019.

President, SEWA Nagaland, Atoli expounded on the everyday challenges women vendors face while working in extreme heat. She also raised concerns about the continued inactivity of the TVC, and the need for it to become more active in addressing vendors’ issues. A short video highlighting the difficulties street vendors face due to climate change was also screened during the programme.

During the open dialogue, Three Priorities, One Shared Way Forward, street vendors raised concerns regarding access to PM SVANidhi, issuance of Street Vendor ID cards, TVC functions and waste management at North Town Bazaar. Clarification was also sought on the requirement for both a Street Vendor ID card and a Trade Licence for the same vendor.

CTC officials encouraged vendors to practise waste segregation and follow the scheduled timings of waste collection vehicles, while acknowledging the need for greater awareness among vendors. 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. The programme was attended by women street vendors, representatives of Chümoukedima Town Council (CTC), the district administration and other stakeholders to share experiences and discuss practical measures to improve market facilities and protect the livelihoods of vendors.

(Samuel, IA Chümoukedima)