Kargil, July 10: The Municipal Committee-Kargil organized a significant interactive session today at TFC-Kargil for street vendors who have benefitted from the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Scheme. The event, held to foster dialogue between vendors and the administration, was graced by the Joint Director, Information, Ladakh and Administrator MC-Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho, as the chief guest.
The programme commenced with a warm welcome from Sajjad Hussain, City Mission Manager, who expressed his gratitude to the guests and vendors for their presence. He highlighted the successful implementation of the PM SVANidhi Scheme in Kargil, noting the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders in bringing the scheme’s benefits to the local vendors.
In his keynote address, Imteeaz Kacho extended his thanks to all participants for their commitment and hard work. He lauded the vendors for their resilience and perseverance in managing their livelihoods despite challenges. Emphasizing the importance of the PM SVANidhi Scheme, Kacho encouraged vendors to make the most of the scheme’s provisions to promote local food products and maintain high standards of hygiene to enhance market success.
Kacho urged the vendors to adopt effective marketing strategies to boost their businesses and contribute to the local economy. He assured them of comprehensive support from the administration and stressed the need for organized efforts to uplift local entrepreneurship.
Zulaikha Banoo, President of the Street Vendors Association (Fatima Chowk side), also spoke at the event. She expressed her gratitude to the officials, particularly Administrator Imteeaz Kacho, for the support provided through the PM SVANidhi Scheme. Banoo shared insights into the financial hardships faced by vendors during the COVID-19 pandemic and acknowledged how the scheme has played a crucial role in stabilizing their businesses.
During the session, Banoo raised several grievances on behalf of the vendors and sought solutions to improve their welfare. The discussion also provided an opportunity for vendors to share their experiences, challenges, and suggestions directly with the administration.
Before concluding the session, Imteeaz Kacho engaged with vendors from various small business units, discussing their operations, earnings, and the support they require from the administration. The interactive session fostered a sense of community and opened channels for ongoing dialogue between vendors and municipal authorities.
The event concluded with a lunch served to all guests and participants, further strengthening the bonds of collaboration and mutual support among the community members.
The interactive session highlighted the ongoing success of the PM SVANidhi Scheme in Kargil and reaffirmed the commitment of the Municipal Committee to supporting local vendors. Through these efforts, the administration aims to empower street vendors, boost local entrepreneurship, and foster economic development in Kargil.
