Jalandhar, Oct 6 : India''''s best ever performance at the Beijing Olympics has sparked off a tremendous growth in the sports industry. Jalandhar, the traditional hub of sports goods manufacturing, is now looking at increasing its share in the domestic and foreign market. One of the progressive units going through a transformation is the Universal Sports Industry.

Jalandhar occupies a prominent place in the burgeoning sports goods industry in India. And, India''''s impressive performance in the Beijing Olympics has led to a boom in the Jalandhar sports industry.

With its massive potential for employment, growth and export, Jalandhar produces over 300 items including inflatable balls, hockey sticks, cricket bats and boxing equipment.

Among the leaders is Universal Sports Industries, a fourth generation company manufacturing various kinds of sporting goods. For over 55 years, it has developed a comprehensive range of sporting goods to cater to the needs of sports and leisure enthusiasts.

Pran Chadha, the director of Universal Sports Industries, said, “Initially we were manufacturing products to cater to the domestic market and merchant exporters. In 1978, during my visit to England I got many orders and our company tied up with some of the big brands. With that our business witnessed a boom.”

“After the dazzling performance by our boxers in the Beijing Olympics, where three of them reached quarterfinals and Vijender Kumar won the Bronze, the demand for boxing products has increased. We are now hoping for good business at domestic and international level,” said Chadha.

The Boxing gear of Universal Sports has the approval of the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation and the company was the winner of `Export Award for Boxing Equipment'''' for the year 1996-97.

Universal Sports Industry is a recognized export house and exports goods to Europe, America and African countries.

The company faces tough competition from the Chinese manufacturers. But quality always makes a difference.

A. N. Chadha, the Managing Director of Universal Sports Industries, said, “Chinese goods appear to be a threat, but our products are superior in quality. China does mass production, whereas we manufacture products for professional sportsmen.”

Universal Sports, that is already exporting goods to 10 countries, is now tapping new markets to expand its trade further. Expecting 20-25 per cent growth each year, the company sticks to its mantra of selling the best quality products.

India will be hosting the Commonwealth Games in the year 2010 and the Jalandhar Sports industry is expecting a boom in the coming days. (ANI)