In a significant boost for Punjab's small-scale industries, the Union Minister for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) has given the green light to establish a dedicated Sports Technology Extension Centre in Jalandhar. The announcement was made by Punjab's Industries Minister, Sanjeev Arora, on Thursday.
Centre to Empower Sports Goods MSMEs
The newly approved centre is designed to be a comprehensive support system for local industries. It will provide a suite of advanced services aimed at modernizing and boosting the competitiveness of MSMEs, with a special focus on units involved in sports goods and related manufacturing. The key support services will include:
- Advanced product and process development.
- Facilitation of technology transfer.
- Testing and quality assurance support.
- Skill development programs for the workforce.
- Continuous handholding and mentorship for businesses.
Official Communication and Timeline
The formal process was set in motion on December 18, when the MSME Ministry sent an official communication. The letter, issued by Principal Director Aditya Prakash Sharma, called for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and the execution of a lease deed to formalize the establishment of the centre.
The Technology Extension Centre (TEC) will be housed within the premises of the Government Institute of Leather and Footwear Technology (GILFT) in Jalandhar. A substantial built-up area of 11,166 square feet, spanning the ground, first, and second floors of the GILFT building, has already been allocated for this project.
Operational Model and Key Date
The project has been approved under the Hub & Spoke Model. Under this framework, the Jalandhar TEC will be mentored and supported by the PPDC (Product and Process Development Centre) in Meerut, ensuring expertise and knowledge flow.
The crucial MoU for the centre is scheduled to be signed on January 5, 2026, in Jalandhar itself. This marks a concrete step towards the physical realization of the project, which promises to be a game-changer for the region's industrial landscape.
Implications for Punjab's Industrial Hub
Jalandhar, long recognized as a major hub for sports goods manufacturing, stands to gain immensely from this initiative. The centre is expected to address critical gaps in technology adoption and innovation among local MSMEs, helping them meet global standards and explore new markets. By providing centralized access to advanced development tools and training, the TEC will empower local manufacturers to enhance product quality, diversify their offerings, and strengthen Punjab's position in the global sports goods supply chain.
