Industries Minister S. Keerthana has promised the fireworks manufacturers in bringing about policy changes with regard to the industry for easy export of fireworks goods.

After interacting with fireworks manufacturers here on Sunday, she said that the manufacturers have sought to change the classification of fireworks goods from the existing orange category in terms of environmental pollution index to white or green for facilitating export.

Similarly, fireworks goods that are being categorised as low hazard product needs to be changed as low risk pyrotechnic goods for easy processing for shipping them for exporting.

The Minister said that the present practice of estimating the turn over of fireworks unit based on sulphur consumption would be changed to rectify the anamolies in calculating turnover.

Ms. Keerthana added that during her recent visit to South Korea she had discussed with the Indian embassy about showcasing the Sivakasi fireworks goods there.

This was the first step in helping export of the Sivakasi fireworks goods for the annual fireworks display there.

The Government would also mull a policy change to bring about single window clearance for various processes for fireworks unit license. The new system would get the clearance within 21 days and avoid corruption.

Similarly, she said that the officials who inspect the fireworks units were unaware of the over 60 types of chemicals used in the industry. Hence, those officers would be provided with proper training.

She said a new system of appeal on revoking suspension of the licence of fireworks units would be put in place. “Indefinite closure of units will hurt the employees,” she said.

TANFAMA president P. Ganesan and TIFMA general secretary T. Kannan, were among those who were present.