Shillong: The Meghalaya & Greater Shillong Progressive Hawkers and Street Vendors Association hit a ten-year milestone. Vendors gathered Thursday at All Saints Hall to mark a decade spent fighting for their rights and daily livelihoods. The event drew city vendors alongside community leaders like Pastor Pyrtuh and activist Angela Rangad.
Speakers hammered home a core message. Street vendors drive the local economy and deserve a seat at the table during urban planning discussions. The group argued for policies that protect worker interests while the city grows. They want authorities to recognize these workers as essential stakeholders rather than obstacles to development.
The anniversary celebration featured a cultural program with performances from singer Tipriti Kharbangar and a troupe led by Lapdiang Syiem. The association also kicked off a three-day event at the hall. This includes public markets and exhibitions aimed at pushing local products. During a private general meeting, members reviewed their progress and set goals to boost welfare. They plan to sharpen their role in the city economy moving forward. As the association noted during the review, they seek to ensure that local trade stays strong, noting the need for "inclusive policies that balance the city’s growth with the livelihood concerns of vendors."
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