Jalandhar, a globally recognised hub for sports goods and equipment manufacturing, is brimming with optimism following the Union Cabinet's approval of the Khelo India sports goods manufacturing scheme, which earmarks ₹1,800 crore to bolster capacity building, research, innovation, and skill development across India's sports goods sector. Industry stakeholders in Punjab's sports capital say the scheme could reshape livelihoods and reverse a period of strain for small and home-based manufacturers.

What the Scheme Entails

The Central government approved the Khelo India sports goods manufacturing scheme with a dedicated outlay of ₹1,800 crore, aimed at establishing sports manufacturing zones across the country. The initiative is designed to strengthen capacity building, drive research and innovation, and upskill workers in the sports goods manufacturing segment. According to market experts, the scheme is set to give a direct lift to small-scale enterprises, open fresh employment avenues, and steer the sports goods sector onto a new growth trajectory.

Why Jalandhar Stands to Gain

Jalandhar has long anchored India's sports goods export ecosystem, producing everything from cricket bats and footballs to gymnasium equipment. Industry representatives in the city welcomed the announcement, noting that the scheme's focus on integrating large manufacturing units with smaller enterprises could enable a meaningful division of labour. By channelling manufacturing-related work into households, families stand to secure employment within their own localities — potentially curbing the outmigration of youth to other cities in search of work.

Challenges the Sector Has Faced

The optimism comes against a backdrop of recent headwinds. Industry voices noted that businesses have contended with the impact of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), rising raw material costs, and a decline in orders. In this context, government support is being viewed as much-needed relief. Stakeholders argue that without structural support, smaller units — many of them home-based — struggled to remain viable as input costs climbed and demand softened.

Broader Impact on Employment and Local Economy

Various industry representatives stated that linking large-scale manufacturers with smaller enterprises could generate employment for a significantly larger number of families. This integration model, they said, would not only raise local income levels but also provide younger workers with a viable professional path within their home region. The scheme is also expected to add vigour to existing manufacturing capacity, giving Jalandhar's sports industry the structural upgrade it has long required.

What to Watch Next

Details on the establishment of dedicated sports manufacturing zones and the disbursement framework under the ₹1,800 crore outlay are yet to be announced. Industry bodies are expected to engage with the government on implementation timelines. Whether the scheme translates into verifiable job creation and export growth — particularly for Jalandhar's small and home-based units — will be the true measure of its impact.