India’s Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the tireless women laborers who form the backbone of Tamil Nadu’s matchbox industry. During a recent event on Saturday, September 20, 2025, she highlighted their indispensable role in sustaining this vital regional sector.
Speaking at the centenary celebrations of the Tamil Nadu matchbox industry in Kovilpatti, Minister Sitharaman underscored the sector’s remarkable history of being predominantly spearheaded by women.
Addressing the unique challenges faced by women in the area, Ms. Sitharaman passionately remarked, “In this arid region, where both rainfall and water resources are scarce, the enduring spirit belongs to every woman. While safeguarding their homes and providing for their families, they also diligently cultivated this trade. What began as a modest enterprise has been transformed by their dedication into a vast and thriving industry.”
She further highlighted the Central government’s commitment, stating, “Despite the BJP not holding a Lok Sabha seat in Thoothukudi, numerous projects have been initiated in the district. This commitment extends across all constituencies in Tamil Nadu, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prioritizes the state’s development, viewing it as an integral part of India’s progress.”
Emphasizing Prime Minister Modi’s vision of India becoming a developed nation by 2047, Ms. Sitharaman called upon the leaders of the matchbox industry. She encouraged them to devise detailed plans outlining their contributions to the nation’s industrial growth, trade, and overall economy. “I am fully dedicated to ensuring that appropriate central government schemes are made available to support these efforts,” she pledged.
The Minister also lauded Kovilpatti MLA Kadambur Raju of the AIADMK, who attended the event. She encouraged local citizens to elect representatives in the upcoming 2026 and 2029 elections who possess a deep understanding of regional issues and are genuinely committed to resolving them.
The event also saw Ms. Sitharaman unveil a special centenary journal for the Tamil Nadu matchbox industry, which was ceremoniously received by BJP State president Nainar Nagenthran. She concluded by formally recognizing and honoring the hardworking women laborers of the matchbox industry.
Among other distinguished guests present were BJP MLA Vanathi Srinivasan and M. Paramasivam, President of the National Small Matchbox Manufactures Association, Kovilpatti.