News in Frames: Dark times befall Sivakasi matchbox labourers

The residents of Kovilpatti near Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu have traditionally relied on the manufacture of safety matches for their livelihood. However, the introduction of mechanisation in the industry has led to a significant loss of jobs for laborers. The industry, which was once thriving, has been impacted by factors such as the arrival of Chinese-made cigarette lighters, rising raw material prices, and a decline in export incentives. As a result, many match-making units now operate for only four days a week, leading to job losses and a decrease in annual turnover. The people of Kovilpatti are now looking to the government for assistance in stabilizing their struggling livelihoods.