The street vending market in India represents a significant, yet largely informal and often overlooked, segment of the urban economy. The paper portrays an all-inclusive appraisal of its multi-dimensional characteristics, highlighting the approximate scale of trade, the complex system of regulations, economic operations and impediments of the street vendors. On the basis of the current literature, policy statements issued by the Government and the reports of various agencies, the study emphasises the significant economic role of street vending, the revolutionary Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 and the insecure financial condition of most of the street vendors. The paper pinpoints the major gaps in gathering accurate data of street vending, issues in implementation of regulations and financial security of street vendors. The study presents a few major recommendations for a conducive and viable urban environment that appreciates and amalgamates street vending as a vibrant constituent of the economy of India.

And challenges faced by street vendors. Drawing upon existing literature, policy documents, and socio-economic reports, this study highlights the substantial economic contribution of street vending, the transformative but often poorly implemented Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, and the precarious financial situation of most vendors. The paper identifies critical gaps in data collection, regulatory enforcement, and financial inclusion, offering recommendations for a more supportive and sustainable urban environment that recognizes and integrates street vending as a vital constituent of India's economy and social fabric.