Mangaluru: Street vendors protest, demand continuation of PM SVANidhi loan scheme

Mangaluru: Street vendors protest, demand continuation of PM SVANidhi loan scheme

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Aug 19, 2025: Street vendors staged a protest demanding the continuation of the PM SVANidhi loan scheme, which was introduced to support their self-reliance, and urged the government to increase the loan limit.

The protest was organized by the Dakshina Kannada District Street Vendors’ Association, with a padayatra held from Ballalbagh to the Mangaluru City Corporation office.

The protesters alleged that the government has stalled the PM SVANidhi micro-loan scheme, causing severe financial distress for poor street vendors. Many vendors who had already availed loans have been regularly repaying them within the stipulated time. Under the scheme, street vendors were earlier provided loans in three phases — Rs 10,000 in the first phase, Rs 20,000 in the second, and Rs 50,000 in the third.

However, for the past 7–8 months, applicants have reportedly been unable to submit applications on the scheme’s portal. The association stressed that the scheme must be continued for vendors who are prompt in repayment.

The protest was held in front of the MCC office, urging authorities to address their demands.