GI tag sought for ‘Sivakasi Fireworks'
Fireworks are made at factories and small cottages in villages across Sivakasi, Vemkottai, Virudhunagar, Sattur, Srivilliputhur and in some areas of Kovilpatti region. In India over 80% of fireworks are manufactured in this region. Its market size is about ₹6,000 crore which is growing annually at 10%. Sivakasi, as a dry region, has a climate that is ideal for firework manufacturing.
'There are many illegal units operating in and around Sivakasi as well as in other parts of India. Since we are the pioneers of this industry, we are seeking a geographical indication tag. Obtaining a GI tag will also help us get monetary support and we can start exports from here,' said a member of TANFAMA.
IPR Attorney P.Sanjai Gandhi said: 'Obtaining a GI tag for Sivakasi Fireworks will help curb duplicate crackers in the market.' Due to the illegal units, this industry witnessed a series of accidents such as explosions and fires that cause injuries and death over the years.
According to details in the filing, Sivakasi fireworks are used in armed forces training. Some airports utilize Sivakasi rocket to repel birds to prevent bird strikes. Historical records show that when this industry commenced there were three companies – National fireworks (which made 1,000 round chain cracker), Kaliswari fireworks (made fire pots) and Standard fireworks (made Lakshmi bomb). Post independence, the growth was explosive. From three factories in 1942 the numbers went to 189 by the year 1980, with employment numbers jumping from 800 to over 75,000. By 2001, Sivakasi was home to over 450 factories and its market size was ₹.2,500 crore. Currently, there are over 1,000 units in this region.
'The next generation is currently reluctant to return and take over the fireworks business. Additionally, the industry is grappling with various challenges, including concerns about pollution. So, we are hopeful obtaining a tag will help us in some way,' another manufacturer in this region said.
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