The State Innovation and Transformation Aayog (SITA) has launched a pilot project on 'panipuri' preparation and vending in a fresh move to encourage innovation and local entrepreneurship. This new initiative related to 'panipuri, a popular Indian street food, aims to introduce a modern and efficient approach to serving the beloved snack at two significant public locations.
SITA is implementing this project to provide a hygienic and organized solution for food vending, promoting small-scale businesses, and enhancing the overall food experience for visitors and students.
Panipuri is usually sold in makeshift stalls or carts on various street corners, but the hygiene and operational challenges associated with such setups have often raised concerns. SITA aims to tackle these challenges by introducing a controlled vending system to provide a cleaner and more efficient customer experience while enjoying the popular snack. The panipuri vending machines are expected to be installed in Guwahati this month.
SITA has hired a local engineer to oversee the installation of vending machines designed to streamline the process of serving panipuri. The machines will feature automated systems allowing customers to select their choice of ingredients and toppings, ensuring a standardized and hygienic experience. This initiative comes amid increasing concerns about food safety and cleanliness, particularly in the context of street food.
"We want to offer an innovative solution to street food vending that maintains the charm of panipuri but improves its hygiene and operational efficiency," SITA Vice Chairman Narayan Borkataky told Business North East (BNE).
Janata Bhavan and Cotton University have been chosen for the project's pilot phase as they offer an ideal setting that can cater to diverse crowds and receive a wide range of feedback.
The first phase will focus on assessing operational feasibility and evaluating customer preferences. SITA will monitor vending machines to ensure smooth functioning and track customer reactions to understand acceptance and satisfaction levels.
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"The feedback we receive from these locations will be vital in determining whether we expand the project to other areas in Assam," Narayan Borkataky said, adding, "If people respond positively, we hope to bring this innovation to other parts of the state, offering local entrepreneurs an opportunity to thrive while providing the public a safe and modernized way to enjoy panipuri."
Meanwhile, SITA has several projects, of which 13 are complete, according to Narayan Borkataky.
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