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Hans India
25-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Sivakasi fireworks industry seeks GI tag to preserve legacy and boost exports
The century-old fireworks industry in Tamil Nadu's Sivakasi has formally applied for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in a bid to protect its legacy, enhance credibility, and open new avenues for exports. The application for the GI tag under the "manufactured goods" category was submitted to the Geographical Indications Registry by the Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers Association (TANFAMA), through advocate and IPR attorney, P. Suganthi. Often referred to as the 'fireworks capital of India,' Sivakasi, and its surrounding regions like Vemkottai, Virudhunagar, Sattur, Srivilliputhur, and parts of Kovilpatti, produce over 80 per cent of the country's fireworks. The industry thrives in Sivakasi's dry climate, which is particularly well-suited for firework manufacturing. The sector has a market value of approximately Rs 6,000 crore, growing at a rate of nearly 10 per cent annually. "There are many illegal and unregulated units operating not just in Sivakasi, but across the country. We are the pioneers of this industry, and a GI tag will help distinguish authentic Sivakasi-made fireworks. It will also enable us to seek financial support and expand into international markets," a TANFAMA representative said. Intellectual Property Rights attorney P. Sanjai Gandhi emphasised that a GI tag could help curb the menace of counterfeit and substandard fireworks in the market. "A GI tag lends credibility and acts as a safeguard against duplicate products," he said. The industry has long struggled with safety concerns, as illegal manufacturing units have contributed to frequent accidents involving fires and explosions. By securing a GI tag, the association hopes to reinforce quality control and improve safety standards. According to the GI filing, Sivakasi-made fireworks are used beyond celebrations. They are utilised by the armed forces for training purposes, and certain airports use Sivakasi rockets to deter birds and prevent bird strikes. The history of this industry dates back to pre-Independence days, with three pioneering firms—National Fireworks (chain crackers), Kaliswari Fireworks (fire pots), and Standard Fireworks ('Lakshmi' bombs). By 1980, the number of factories had surged to 189, employing over 75,000 people. Today, the region houses more than 1,000 units. Despite its growth, the industry faces challenges, including environmental concerns and a lack of interest among the younger generation to join the family trade. Manufacturers hope that a GI tag will revitalise interest and secure the future of this iconic industry.
The Hindu
24-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
GI tag sought for ‘Sivakasi Fireworks'
The century old fireworks industry in Sivakasi has now approached the Geographical Indications Registry seeking a tag. An application was filed by the Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers Association (TANFAMA) for 'Sivakasi Fireworks' under manufactured goods category. This particular application was filed by Advocate & IPR Attorney, P. Suganthi. 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 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.
