Shillong, June 20: Unemployment continues to be a pressing concern in Meghalaya, particularly within Shillong’s urban landscape. With limited formal job opportunities, many residents—especially women—are increasingly turning to the informal economy for survival. One striking example of this grassroots resilience is found daily outside Civil Hospital, where roadside food vendors serve affordable meals to a steady stream of passersby.

A compelling image captures one such woman vendor seated on the pavement, serving freshly cooked rice (ja) and tea (sha) to a diverse clientele, including hospital staff, patients’ families, and daily wage workers. Operating without a stall, shelter, or formal infrastructure—and relying only on basic utensils—she embodies a growing trend of informal entrepreneurship amid economic uncertainty.

The rise of such vending practices is closely tied to Meghalaya’s high unemployment rates, particularly among youth and individuals without formal education or vocational skills. For many, self-employment through food vending outside busy public institutions offers a modest but dependable source of income. These vendors not only support their own families but also provide a vital service—affordable and accessible meals for people who often cannot afford restaurant prices.

For rural visitors and low-income families seeking treatment at Civil Hospital, these humble food stalls serve as a much-needed lifeline. In the absence of inclusive economic infrastructure, the informal sector becomes both a coping mechanism and a social support system.

While these street vendors exemplify the resilience and adaptability of Shillong’s working class, their stories also underscore a deeper structural issue. There is an urgent need for systemic reforms—ranging from employment generation and vocational training to targeted support for micro-entrepreneurs. Only through such efforts can Meghalaya move toward a more inclusive and sustainable economy.