Social and Cultural Contributions of Women Street Vendors in Vasai Virar Municipal Corporation

This study explores the significant social and cultural contributions of women street vendors in the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC), located in Maharashtra, India. Women street vendors play a pivotal role in the local economy and community life, yet their contributions often remain underappreciated and under-researched. This research aims to highlight their multifaceted impact by examining how these vendors influence social cohesion, cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and urban-rural integration. Through a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, and observational studies, this research assesses the role of women street vendors in fostering community interactions and support networks. Findings reveal that these vendors are central to social life in their neighborhoods, acting as informal counselors and community connectors. They also play a crucial role in preserving and promoting local cultural traditions through their sales of traditional foods, crafts, and artifacts. Economically, women vendors contribute to their families' financial stability and create employment opportunities for other local women, thereby challenging traditional gender roles and advancing economic empowerment. Additionally, their activities bridge urban and rural economies by sourcing products from rural areas, thus supporting local agriculture and integrating rural producers into urban markets. The study also examines the advocacy efforts of women street vendors, who actively engage in pushing for better working conditions and legal recognition. These efforts contribute to broader policy changes and improvements in market infrastructure.