Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday (September 20, 2025) lauded the efforts of women labourers employed in matchbox industries in Tamil Nadu, noting that their tireless contribution has given life to this sector in the region.
Addressing the centenary celebrations of the Tamil Nadu matchbox industry in Kovilpatti, she emphasised that the sector has been predominantly led by women.
Speaking on the challenges faced by women in the region, Ms. Sitharaman observed, “On this drought-stricken land, where there is neither enough rainfall nor relief from water scarcity, the pride lies with every woman who, while protecting their homes and sustaining their families, also nurtured this trade. What began as a small industry was transformed by them into such a vast industry.”
“As of now, the Central government has brought numerous projects to Thoothukudi district, though we [the BJP] do not have a Lok Sabha member from the constituency. In fact, it is not limited to Thoothukudi but applies to constituencies across Tamil Nadu. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leading from the front in providing projects to Tamil Nadu, considering the State as an integral part of India,” she noted.
Highlighting that the Prime Minister has been taking various measures to elevate India as a developed nation by 2047, Ms. Sitharaman urged the stakeholders of matchbox industries to present a detailed plan on how they could contribute to the nation’s industry, trade, and economy to achieve the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. “I am fully committed to taking the necessary efforts to bring forth suitable schemes through the Central government,” she assured.
Commending the efforts of Kovilpatti MLA Kadambur Raju of the AIADMK, who was also present at the event, she urged the people to elect representatives in the 2026 and 2029 elections who are familiar with the issues of the region and committed to addressing them.
Earlier, Ms. Sitharaman released a centenary year journal of the Tamil Nadu matchbox industry, which was received by BJP State president Nainar Nagenthran. She also honoured the women labourers of the matchbox industry.
BJP MLA Vanathi Srinivasan and M. Paramasivam, president, National Small Matchbox Manufactures Association, Kovilpatti, were among those present on the occasion.