Fired-up matchstick industry in dire financial straits, staring at a bleak future

THE century-old matchstick industry which once kept the home fires burning of lakhs of workers appears to be going up in flames if the smoke signals are to be believed.

- HARINI M @Virudhunagar

Financial problems have been plaguing the industry hit by modern-day competition and the resultant labour turnover. Staring at a bleak future, the migrant workers are no more fired up to continue as they are picking up sticks and moving to places that match up to their standard of living.

According to industry sources, approximately 300 factories, mostly mechanised, are currently operational, supporting around 3 lakh people directly and indirectly. The wages vary significantly depending on the type of unit. For instance, in mechanised units, average daily wage for a worker is ₹370. However, in manual units, it's around ₹100. The workers claim despite the rising cost of living, their earnings have not increased proportionately, making it difficult for them to make ends meet.