HOUSING & URBAN DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
RESOLUTION
The 16th April, 2012
Sub: Odisha Urban Street Vendors Policy
Street Vending as a profession has been in existence in India from time immemorial. The number of Street vendors has increased manifold in recent years. Some studies estimate that the Street vendors constitute approximately 2% of the population of a metropolis. Urban vending is not only a source of employment but also provides ‘affordable’ services to the majority of urban population. The role played by the hawkers in the economy as well as in the society needs to be given due credit. Street vendors provide valuable services to the urban population while trying to earn a livelihood and it is necessary to protect the right of this segment of population to earn their livelihood. This policy aims to ensure that this important section of the urban population finds recognition for its contribution to society and is conceived as a major initiative for urban poverty alleviation.