NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Suman Bery urged local manufacturers to focus on quality and innovation to build strong global brands.

INR 10 Crore R&D Centre to Boost Jalandhar Sports, Leather Exports Globally

The Punjab government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the MSME-Technology Development Centre (PPDC), Meerut, to establish a research and development (R&D) extension centre in Jalandhar. The initiative focuses on boosting the city’s sports goods and leather industry and enhancing its global competitiveness.

Punjab Industry Minister Sanjiv Arora described the initiative as a “game-changer” that will strengthen Jalandhar’s globally renowned manufacturing sector. The MoU was signed between PPDC Meerut and the Government Institute of Leather and Footwear Technology (GILFT), Jalandhar, with the agreement inked by the principal director of PPDC and the principal of GILFT.

The proposed centre, estimated at INR 10 crore, will offer state-of-the-art facilities for testing, training, skill development and research and development (R&D) to help local manufacturers meet evolving global standards. The centre is expected to enhance product quality, support local manufacturers, and boost Jalandhar’s exports on the global stage.

NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Suman Bery urged local manufacturers to focus on quality and innovation to build strong global brands. Punjab Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, NITI Aayog Senior Advisor Sanjeet Singh, and Punjab Industry and Commerce Secretary Kamal Kishore Yadav were also present.

An NITI Aayog team earlier visited prominent sports goods units in Jalandhar, including Saavi International, Alpha Hockey, and Shrey Sports. Mukul Verma of Saavi International highlighted that Jalandhar-made products, such as rugby balls used in the Women’s Rugby World Cup and hockey equipment for the Olympics, were on global platforms. An exhibition of locally made sports goods and safety gear showcased the industry’s export potential.

Source: Times of India