Women vendors and their struggle to sustain livelihood in rural Nagaland: A study on Chakhesang women vendors of Nagaland.

In rural Nagaland, India, where formal employment opportunities are scarce, Chakhesang women vendors find a crucial lifeline in street vending. This paper explores their socio-economic profile and livelihood activities in Phek district, focusing on their contribution to income generation, poverty alleviation, and household well-being. Selling a unique blend of fresh agricultural produce and indigenous organic forest products on highways and street pavements of nearby towns and markets, these women demonstrate immense resilience in navigating informal economies. Despite challenges like lack of access to credit, market infrastructure, and basic amenities, they persevere, securing their families’ livelihoods and showcasing the potential of street vending as a sustainable livelihood option for rural women in Nagaland. A mixed-method approach was adopted to explore the socio-economic status and challenges of women vendors using a semi-structured interview and observation method. The findings reveal the crucial role of street vending in Chakhesang communities, highlighting its potential for sustainable livelihood, economic empowerment, and poverty reduction.