GST reform not a mere tax change but revolution: FM Sitharaman

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman attended the Tamil Nadu Matchbox Industry Centenary Celebration in Kovilpatti, Thoothukudi district on Saturday. The event was jointly organised by the National Small Matchbox Manufacturers Association, Global Safety Matchbox Industries Association, South India Matchbox Manufacturers Association, All India Chamber of Matchbox Industries (Sivakasi), along with various producers’ associations from Sattur, Gudiyatham, Tenkasi, Dharmapuri, Pollachi, and Kaveripattinam. During the event, Sitharaman felicitated and interacted with women workers of the matchbox industry in Kovilpatti.

Addressing the gathering, she paid tribute to women workers who form the backbone of the industry. “Women have driven this industry forward, working even in difficult conditions to sustain their families. Though many men are on this stage, at least one woman worker should have been here too,” she said. Calling the Goods and Services Tax (GST) reform a “revolution, not just a tax change,” she recalled that the Modi government had reduced taxes on 375 products by 10 percent, bringing down consumer prices, which she described as a “Diwali gift.” Seeking political support, the Finance Minister urged people to elect leaders who can aid development. “You must choose MLAs in 2026 and MPs in 2029 who can contribute to your growth," she said. As part of the celebrations, Sitharaman visited an exhibition showcasing matchbox products. More than 10,000 matchbox manufacturers and workers from across Tamil Nadu, including Sivakasi, Kovilpatti, and Tenkasi attended the event.