Guwahati: GMC unveils sweeping reforms to support small traders

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: In a landmark move aimed at empowering small traders, advancing social inclusion, and encouraging sustainable urban mobility, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has rolled out a series of citizen-centric reforms that promise to bring significant relief and opportunity to various sections of the city’s population.

One of the most notable changes announced is the simplification of the trade license system. The GMC has drastically reduced the number of trade categories under the general trade license—from a cumbersome 7000 to fewer than 150. This rationalization is designed to streamline the licensing process, making it more accessible, efficient, and applicant-friendly. Small business owners and aspiring traders are expected to benefit greatly from the reduced bureaucratic hurdles.

In a further push to support micro-entrepreneurs, especially those operating small establishments such as pan shops, grocery stores, and other similar businesses; the GMC has slashed the annual trade license fee. For shops operating in spaces less than 100 square feet, the fee has been reduced from Rs 1,750 to just Rs 1,000. This move aims to alleviate the financial burden on small traders, encourage greater compliance, and promote formalization within the informal sector of the local economy.

Starting from June 1, 2025, GMC will also implement a new policy to provide free parking for two-wheelers and three-wheelers in all parking lots tendered by the corporation. This initiative is part of GMC’s larger strategy to enhance urban mobility by incentivizing the use of smaller, more sustainable modes of transport. It is expected to reduce daily commuting costs and improve accessibility to public spaces for city dwellers.

In a significant step towards fostering social equity, the GMC has also declared that female vendors from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) will be exempt from paying market fees in all GMC-leased markets. The process to issue identity documentation to eligible beneficiaries will begin shortly, and the fee waiver will be implemented from June 1, 2025.

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