Why in News?
Lakhanpur (Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir) has been selected among the first towns approved under the PM SVANidhi Street Food Hub Initiative.
Key Highlights
- Lakhanpur, the gateway to Jammu & Kashmir, will develop a Street Food Hub across two clusters covering 1,754.25 sq. m.
- Will promote Dogra cuisine and improve facilities for pilgrims, tourists, and local vendors.
- The project aims to transform Lakhanpur into a culinary tourism destination.
About the Initiative
- Implemented by the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) under PM SVANidhi.
- Plans to establish up to 50 Street Food Hubs across India.
- Focuses on organized, hygienic food streets, tourism promotion, and sustainable livelihoods.
- Preference to towns with:
- Tourism and heritage significance.
- Unique local cuisine.
- Convergence with Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and UNESCO Creative Cities.
Financial Support
- ₹4 crore per project: 30% first instalment, 50% second instalment, and 20% after completion
- Additional ₹25 lakh incentive for cities with a notified Street Vending Plan.
PM SVANidhi
- Launched: 2020, Ministry: MoHUA
- Objective: Provide collateral-free working capital loans to street vendors and promote financial inclusion through interest subsidy and digital payments.
Significance
- Enhances livelihoods of street vendors.
- Promotes local cuisine and tourism.
- Improves food hygiene and visitor experience.
[2015] Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana has been launched for
[A] providing housing loan to poor people at cheaper interest rates
[B] Promoting women’s Self-Help Groups in backward areas
[C] promoting financial inclusion in the country
[D] providing financial help to marginalised communities