Kohima: The Self-Employed Women’s Association and North East Network marked International Street Vendors Day 2026 in Chümoukedima on November 12. Held at the Deputy Commissioner's Conference Hall, the event focused on the theme of climate-resilient markets and giving street traders a stronger voice. Local vendors face constant pressure from rising temperatures, extreme heat, and heavy rainfall.
EAC Chümoukedima, Er Khriengunuo Theunuo, labeled the vendors vital micro-entrepreneurs. She emphasized that authorities must stop arbitrary evictions. Theunuo pointed to the Street Vendors Act of 2014 and state rules designed to secure these livelihoods. She encouraged workers to apply for the PM SVANidhi scheme, which offers collateral-free loans. Eligible families can also gain health insurance and food security through the SVANidhi Se Samriddhi initiative. Vendors needing identity cards should contact the Chümoukedima Town Council.
Temjenlemla, a coordinator for SEWA Nagaland, warned that poor facilities threaten vendor health. She stated, "The need to establish safe drinking water stations at Thepfu Market and North Town Bazaar was also highlighted." Attendees debated the ongoing inactivity of Town Vending Committees and the necessity of proper sanitation. SEWA Nagaland President Atoli pushed for these committees to start addressing long-standing grievances immediately.
The session ended with an open dialogue on waste management and logistics. Vendors asked for clarity regarding trade licences and identity cards. Council officials asked the community to help keep markets clean and plastic-free by following specific waste collection schedules.
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