Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday hailed the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as a “revolutionary reform” while addressing the Tamil Nadu Matchbox Industry Centenary Celebration at the SSTM College campus in Kovilpatti, Thoothukudi district.
The event was organised jointly by the National Small Matchbox Manufacturers Association, Global Safety Matchbox Industries Association, South India Matchbox Manufacturers Association, All India Chamber of Matchbox Industries (Sivakasi), and several other producers’ associations across Tamil Nadu. It was presided over by committee president S. Maheswaran, with vice-president SSTM Krishnamoorthy and BJP state general secretary Ram Srinivasan in attendance.
During her address, Sitharaman paid tribute to women workers, acknowledging them as the backbone of the century-old industry. “Women have driven this industry forward, often working in difficult conditions to sustain their families. At least one woman worker should have been on this stage today,” she remarked.
She also underlined the Modi government’s focus on southern districts, noting that the Prime Minister promptly considers requests for the region, regardless of political representation. Calling GST more than a tax reform, Sitharaman said, “It is a revolution. In fact, as a Diwali gift, our government reduced taxes on 375 products by 10%, making goods more affordable for consumers.”
Appealing for political support, the Finance Minister urged people to elect leaders committed to development. “You must choose MLAs in 2026 and MPs in 2029 who can contribute to your growth,” she said, adding praise for BJP’s Tamil Nadu president Nainar Nagendran and senior AIADMK leader Kadambur C. Raju.
The celebration witnessed the participation of over 10,000 matchbox manufacturers and workers from across Tamil Nadu, including Sivakasi, Kovilpatti, and Tenkasi. A special exhibition on matchbox products, a medical camp, and community meals were also part of the event.