Need for robust nationwide GRCs for street vendors asserted

New Delhi, Jan 5: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) hosted a seminar on “Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) for Street Vendors” at the India Habitat Centre. New Delhi.

The event aimed to create awareness and emphasise the significance of robust GRCs nationwide.

The PM SVANidhi scheme, launched by the Ministry on June 1, 2020, has been a beacon of support for street vendors adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 57.83 lakh street vendors have been provided with first-term loans, more than 16.23 lakh with second-term loans, and 2.16 lakh with third-term loans, all achieved within 43 months, during which the nation witnessed three waves of the pandemic.

Bringing together representatives from all States and Union Territories, the seminar provided a platform for key stakeholders, including GRC members, to delve into the legal intricacies outlined in the Street Vendors Act of 2014. Attendees included officials from both Union and State Governments, civil society organizations, GRC members, and other subject matter experts.

The primary objective of the seminar was to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the legal provisions within the Street Vendors Act, fostering capacity building among state officials and GRC members. The collaborative effort sought to address the challenges faced by street vendors and uphold their rights effectively.

An essential highlight of the seminar was the launch of two crucial websites by the Minister: the refreshed PAiSA Portal Dashboard and the PM SVANidhi Mission Monitoring Portal. These platforms are designed to provide real-time progress updates on the mission and scheme, promoting transparency and accountability in the process.

The Centre for Civil Society took centre stage with a comprehensive presentation on the Street Vendors Act of 2014 and the GRC, shedding light on the legal framework and its implications.

A panel discussion on "Strengthening Grievance Redressal Mechanisms for Street Vendors" engaged panellists in exploring challenges faced by street vendors and proposing effective solutions.

The seminar highlighted the commendable achievements under the Act, including the formation of 4,342 Town Vending Committees, the demarcation of 13,403 vending zones, the construction of 1,350 vending markets, and the issuance of 38.06 lakh Certificates of Vending. These initiatives play a pivotal role in safeguarding vendors from arbitrary evictions, fostering economic sustainability, and contributing to vibrant urban spaces.