In a significant move to propel Jalandhar's renowned sports goods and leather industry onto the global stage, the Punjab government inked a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday. The agreement with the MSME-Technology Development Centre (PPDC) in Meerut paves the way for establishing a dedicated extension centre in Jalandhar.
A Game-Changer for Global Competitiveness
Punjab's Industry Minister, Sanjiv Arora, heralded the initiative as a "game-changer" during a stakeholders' meeting focused on sports goods manufacturing. He emphasized that the centre is the result of the state government's strenuous efforts and will provide a major fillip to the sector by ensuring robust research and development (R&D).
The MoU was formally signed between PPDC, Meerut, and the Government Institute of Leather and Footwear Technology (GILFT) in Jalandhar. The principal director of PPDC and the principal of GILFT were the signatories. Minister Arora stated this step is a leap towards strengthening the city's globally recognized manufacturing hub.
State-of-the-Art Facilities with Rs 10 Crore Investment
The proposed extension centre, with an estimated cost of Rs 10 crore, is designed to be a comprehensive support system for local manufacturers. It will offer cutting-edge facilities for:
- Testing of materials and products
- Training and skill development for the workforce
- Research and Development (R&D) to innovate and meet evolving international standards
The goal is to help Jalandhar's industry position itself among the world's leading sports goods manufacturing hubs.
Focus on Quality and Innovation for Global Brands
The stakeholder meeting saw high-level participation, including NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Suman Bery. Bery urged local manufacturers to concentrate on quality and innovation, asserting that sustained investment in these areas is the pathway to creating strong, recognizable global brands.
Other notable officials present included Punjab Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, NITI Aayog Senior Advisor Sanjeet Singh, and Punjab Industry and Commerce Secretary Kamal Kishore Yadav.
Earlier on the same day, a delegation from NITI Aayog conducted visits to several prominent sports goods manufacturing units in Jalandhar, such as Saavi International, Alpha Hockey, and Shrey Sports.
Mukul Verma from Saavi International showcased the global reach of Jalandhar's products, including rugby balls used in the Women's Rugby World Cup and hockey equipment featured in the Olympic Games. An exhibition displaying a wide array of Jalandhar-made sports goods, safety gear, and related equipment was also organized, highlighting the sector's diversity and capability.
