Punjab's Leadership and Industry Titans Rebrand 'Jugad' as Core Innovation Driver
In a significant shift from its traditional perception, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and prominent industrial leaders have collectively sought to redefine the term "Punjabi jugad" as a fundamental element of industrial innovation. The redefinition was prominently featured during the inauguration of the three-day Progressive Punjab Investors' Summit 2026 held in Chandigarh.
From Makeshift Fix to Strategic Advantage
Speaking at the summit, Chief Minister Mann articulated a compelling vision where the state's inherent problem-solving spirit, often colloquially referred to as "jugad," transforms into the primary driver for Punjab's next economic phase. "Jugad is the name of innovation and Punjabis are known for innovation," Mann declared emphatically. He asserted that the entrepreneurial capabilities of Punjabis enable them to perform exceptionally under the most challenging conditions.
To illustrate this concept, Mann shared an anecdote from his earlier days as an artiste, recounting a story about a luxury German car that experienced repeated breakdowns across various locations in Punjab. Each time, local mechanics managed to keep the vehicle operational using unconventional local fixes. "The car broke down in Phillaur and the mechanic said he will use a ‘jugad'. The car again developed a fault in Ludhiana and the mechanic again said he will use a jugad using a part from a tractor," Mann narrated.
He further explained that the car owner eventually wrote to the German manufacturers, stating, "He said it was a good car, but it needed a part called jugad that helps repair the car in case of any problem." This story served as a metaphor for Punjab's adaptable and resourceful approach to challenges.
Economic Take-Off and Global Competitiveness
Drawing a vivid analogy with aviation, Mann declared that Punjab's economy is prepared for a high-altitude take-off. He assured attending industrialists of a smooth journey, positioning "Punjabi jugad" as the state's ultimate competitive advantage in the global marketplace. "Punjab is set to take a new flight. We will soon be in a safe zone and seat belt signs will be off," Mann told the gathering of global business leaders.
In a light-hearted yet firm invitation to investors, he added, "You may come and go at will but you (industrialists) will have to stay in our plane….And this plane too has been built with jugad." This statement underscored the state's commitment to leveraging its innovative spirit for sustainable economic growth.
Industrial Leaders Echo the Sentiment
Speaking before Mann, Sajjan Jindal, chairman of the JSW Group, reinforced the concept by highlighting the historical roots of jugad. "The word ‘jugad' came from Punjab. It means managing the technology. Today we use AI and machine learning but back then, it was done using jugad," Jindal remarked. He shared a personal recollection, stating, "In my childhood, I also made a small car using a diesel pump using jugad. That is the inherent innovative strength of Punjab."
Celebrating Punjabi Entrepreneurial Spirit
Mann further elaborated on the unique qualities of Punjabis, emphasizing their resilience and work ethic. "Punjabis are known for their entrepreneurial abilities, innovation and problem-solving spirit," he stated. "You will rarely find a Punjabi begging because our people believe in hard work and are doers who can perform even in the most difficult conditions. Punjabis can work for 20 hours a day with unmatched dedication, commitment and resilience. This quality is unparalleled across the world."
The Progressive Punjab Investors' Summit 2026 serves as a platform to attract global investments and showcase the state's potential. By reframing "jugad" as a symbol of innovation rather than a makeshift solution, Mann and industry leaders aim to position Punjab as a hub for creative problem-solving and industrial growth, setting the stage for an economic renaissance driven by local ingenuity and global partnerships.
