https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/with-rs-4-5k-crore-biz-tn-fireworks-hub-sees-a-crackling-diwali/articleshow/95087973.cms

VIRUDHUNAGAR: Despite a dip in production, the fireworks industry in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu has seen a business between Rs 4,000 crore and Rs 5,000 crore due to good sale of crackers this Diwali. A hub for fireworks manufacturers, Virudhunagar contributes to nearly 90% of the country's production. There are over 1,000 fireworks units in the district and nearly eight lakh employees are directly and indirectly dependent on this industry for their livelihood. Murali Asaithambi, vice-president of Sivakasi Fireworks Manufacturers' Association, said the industry usually records a business of Rs 7,000-Rs 8,000 crore every year. However, for the past few years, there has been a decline in business due to various restrictions. "There was good demand in the market this Diwali. We estimate the business to be between Rs 4,000 crore and Rs 5,000 crore. The final figures will be known in a week. Business has been almost the same since 2018 following the Supreme Court's ban on use of barium nitrate and manufacture of joint crackers. Barium nitrate was used in 40% of firework varieties. Joint crackers contributed to another 40% of the total production. With the ban, the industry is able to manufacture only 20% varieties of fireworks. This has resulted in a decline in production by 40%. The sale will be commensurate with production," he said. On the future of the industry, Asaithambi said the ban should be revoked for the industry to become stable once again and achieve 100% production. Indian Fireworks Manufacturers Association general secretary T Kannan said production has come down to nearly 60% this year. However, due to good demand in the market, the sale was good despite a 25% price hike. "Owing to good demand, all stocks from the district have been cleared. This could be seen as a positive sign and we might be able to increase production for next year," Kannan said.