Tue Aug 26 15:12:19 UTC 2025: **Summary of the provided text:**

The Andhra Pradesh government has approved a project to establish “Smart Street Vending Markets” in seven cities, aiming to modernize urban livelihoods and improve the street vending experience. The project, funded through a blended model, will provide organized, tech-driven, eco-friendly vending spaces with various amenities for 580 vendors. The initiative prioritizes women, differently-abled, and marginalized vendors, offering them skill training, digital marketing support, and potential e-commerce tie-ups, benefiting nearly 2,500 dependents and creating revenue for municipalities.

**News Article:**

**Andhra Pradesh to Launch Smart Street Vending Markets Across Seven Cities**

**Amaravati, August 26, 2025** – In a bid to modernize urban livelihoods and bring order to city streets, the Andhra Pradesh government has announced the establishment of “Smart Street Vending Markets” in seven major cities: Anantapur, Kurnool, Tadepalli-Mangalagiri, Ongole, Srikakulam, Vijayawada, and Kadapa.

The initiative, spearheaded by the MEPMA (Mission for Elimination of Poverty in Municipal Areas) under the DAY-NULM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihood Mission) scheme, aims to provide 580 vendors with organized, technology-driven, and eco-friendly vending spaces. Each market will house between 40 and 200 modular shops equipped with solar power, free Wi-Fi, digital payment facilities, and CCTV surveillance.

Principal Secretary S. Suresh Kumar emphasized the project’s goals: “to ensure dignity for vendors, convenience for customers, and orderliness for cities.” The project, estimated at ₹26 crore, will be funded through a blended model involving SHG bank loans, MEPMA support, and government contributions.

The initiative prioritizes women, differently-abled, and marginalized vendors, ensuring transparent allotment through Town Vending Committees. Beyond infrastructure, the programme includes crucial skill training in hygiene, food safety, and entrepreneurship. Vendors will also receive support for digital marketing and potential tie-ups with e-commerce platforms, expanding their reach and boosting income.

Mr. Suresh Kumar added that the initiative is expected to empower nearly 2,500 dependents, promote sustainable practices, and create new revenue streams for participating municipalities. The project signals a significant step toward modernizing the informal sector and creating a more organized and inclusive urban environment in Andhra Pradesh.

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