Rise of Meerut’s Sports Industry: UP set to become a global manufacturing powerhouse

Jewar Airport and Noida logistics hub to reduce export costs and increase speed

UP can play a decisive role in achieving India’s target of 11% global share by 2036

Lucknow: March 2026 : Driven by Yogi government’s vision of industrial promotion and cluster-based development, Meerut is emerging as a strong hub for the country’s sports equipment sector. A recent report by NITI Aayog has also highlighted that if traditional manufacturing clusters receive modern technology and policy support, India can significantly increase its share in the global market. In this direction, the proactive policies of the Uttar Pradesh government are giving Meerut a new identity.

Meerut has long been a major sports goods manufacturing hub in India. The city hosts over 250 export units, more than 1,000 domestic units, over 4,000 micro enterprises and around 20,000 household production units. Products such as cricket bats, footballs, boxing gloves and gym equipment are manufactured on a large scale. Yogi government has worked to connect this traditional strength with modern industrial development so that local industries can compete globally.

Under the state’s industrial policies, special focus has been given to infrastructure development in Meerut and western Uttar Pradesh. Improved road networks, expressways and logistics facilities have made exports easier. Additionally, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are being supported through financial assistance, technological upgrades and training programs. This has led to improvements in both production capacity and quality.

In the Union Budget 2026, a special provision of ₹500 crore for sports goods sector and an emphasis on modernizing traditional clusters have provided fresh momentum to the industry. UP government is leveraging this opportunity to integrate Meerut into global supply chain. Measures such as policy simplification and a single-window system are creating a business-friendly environment to attract investments.

According to the report, India’s share in global sports equipment exports is currently around 0.5%, with a target to increase it to 11% by 2036 approximately $8.1 billion. While the sector faces challenges such as high raw material costs, import duties of 10-20%, technological gaps and global competition, UP government is actively working to address these issues.

Steps are being taken to promote access to modern machinery, skill development and branding so that local products meet international standards. In the coming years, major events like Commonwealth Games 2030 and the potential Olympics 2036 are expected to drive increased demand for sports equipment.

Noida region in western Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a new strength for the sports equipment sector. Noida International Airport at Jewar and modern logistics hub in Greater Noida will play a crucial role in making exports faster and more cost-effective. Improved connectivity will directly benefit traditional clusters like Meerut by reducing transit time and lowering costs. Additionally, the presence of industrial units and large companies in Noida is strengthening the supply chain, turning the entire region into a competitive manufacturing and export zone for the global market.