Himachal Pradesh to Implement UP Model: Street Vendors and Shopkeepers Must Display Identification for Hygiene Compliance

Himachal Pradesh’s Congress-led government has announced a new policy requiring shopkeepers and street vendors to display their identification details. This move, aimed at enhancing food safety and hygiene standards, was announced by Minister and Congress leader Vikramaditya Singh on Wednesday. The decision came after a joint meeting with the Public Works, Urban Development, and Municipal Corporation departments.

The new regulation aligns with the model already implemented in Uttar Pradesh (UP), spearheaded by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s government. Vikramaditya Singh emphasized that this decision was made in response to growing public concerns regarding the hygiene and safety of food sold by street vendors. During the meeting, Singh highlighted that the state aims to ensure that all street vendors, especially those selling edible items, adhere to strict hygiene standards to safeguard public health.

In a statement reported by ANI, Vikramaditya Singh explained, "To make sure that hygienic food is sold, a decision has been taken for all street vendors... especially those selling edible items." He added that the public had voiced concerns over the cleanliness and safety of food sold by vendors, leading to this decision.

The policy will mandate that every shopkeeper and street vendor prominently display their identification, including their name and ID, ensuring accountability and transparency in their business practices. This move is expected to reassure consumers about the safety of food sold in public spaces.

The minister further explained that this measure will help authorities keep track of vendors and ensure compliance with food safety regulations. It also mirrors the strategy used in Uttar Pradesh, where street vendors are required to display their identification to boost hygiene standards in public markets.

In a Facebook post, Vikramaditya Singh reiterated that the policy was finalized in coordination with the Public Works Urban Development and Municipal Corporation departments. He emphasized that it is part of a broader effort to improve public health and hygiene across Himachal Pradesh, especially in urban areas where street vendors operate in large numbers.

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had directed additional safety measures, such as requiring chefs and waiters in hotels and restaurants to wear masks and gloves. Furthermore, the installation of CCTV cameras in these establishments has been mandated to monitor food safety and ensure compliance.

Himachal Pradesh’s adoption of similar measures reflects its commitment to ensuring that food sold in public spaces meets high safety standards. By implementing this policy, the state government aims to protect public health while supporting vendors by encouraging safer, more transparent business practices.