JALANDHAR: Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Singh Sahney has called for urgent efforts to revive Jalandhar’s once-renowned sports goods manufacturing industry, saying years of policy shortcomings and inadequate support have weakened Punjab’s industrial competitiveness and pushed businesses to explore opportunities outside the state.
In a statement, Sahney highlighted the Union Government’s ₹1,856.67-crore Khelo India Sports Goods Manufacturing Scheme, describing it as a significant opportunity to restore Jalandhar’s manufacturing legacy and strengthen Punjab’s position in the domestic and international sports goods market.
He said the scheme could attract Indian and global brands, modernise micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), upgrade manufacturing technology, improve quality standards and expand exports. The initiative also has the potential to encourage fresh investment, establish new factories and create employment opportunities for Punjab’s youth.
Sahney stressed that Jalandhar, which once set global benchmarks in sports goods manufacturing, must regain its lost industrial momentum through sustained policy support, technological advancement and a business-friendly environment.
Emphasising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the MP called for concerted efforts to bring industries back to Punjab and ensure that the state’s traditional manufacturing strengths translate into economic growth, investment and jobs.
The proposed scheme could provide a fresh opportunity for Jalandhar’s sports goods sector, but its long-term success will depend on effective implementation, accessibility for local manufacturers and sustained support for Punjab’s industrial ecosystem.