Punjab Inc: Meet this Ludhiana honcho who loves bikes

I am Harsimerjit Singh Lucky, a person of strong faith. I firmly believe in maintaining a positive outlook and working diligently in every circumstance. I hold a master’s degree in economics from Government College Ludhiana. My passion initially led me toward a career in aviation, and I was selected for the Indian Air Force in 1982. However, as the only son in my family, my mother, who was an English lecturer at Khalsa College for Women (Civil Lines), couldn’t find the courage to let me go. Consequently, I relinquished my dream of becoming a pilot and ventured into the manufacturing of bicycle parts. Although it was a new field for me, my curiosity about engineering steered me in the right direction. I started my forging unit, “Lucky Forgings,” in just 125 sq ft of rented space. Today, by the grace of God, I own four significant plants: Lucky Forgings, Lucky Engineers, Lucky Exports, and Master Lucky Bikes. These establishments are engaged in the production of cycle chains, freewheels, coaster brake hubs, and will soon commence manufacturing reflectors and disc brakes in the coming months.

What motivated you to start this company?

As mentioned earlier, a change in my career path prompted me to establish this company. Growing up in modest circumstances, my father, who worked in the oil business, assisted me in initiating a forging unit initially. The rest of the journey was paved with hard work and unwavering passion, which has brought me to where I am today.

You have recently become the President of UCPMA. Why is representing this association so significant?

The association’s significance lies in its direct connection with the bicycle industry and its pivotal role in shaping policies at both the Central and State government levels. An efficient team within UCPMA can engage with the government, paving the way for a promising future in the cycle industry. This team is consistently consulted by both the Central and State governments before budget sessions and business conclaves, among other responsibilities.

What role does UCPMA play in the bicycle industry?

UCPMA stands as the largest single trade-promoting association for bicycles and bicycle parts in Asia, underscoring its importance. Through collaboration with the government, the association can influence policies that benefit MSMEs and traders alike. Over the past 2-3 years, we haven’t witnessed substantial measures for the welfare of the bicycle industry, which has suffered as a result. We need to voice our concerns, and an astute governing body within the association is necessary for this purpose. We hope to address our industry’s challenges with both the Union and State governments and bring about a positive change in the stagnating bicycle industry.

Tell us something about the new team of UCPMA:

The UCPMA operates with an 8-member team. This time around, a substantial coalition of industrialists united under the banner of the “United Alliance” and contested against the incumbent group led by former President D.S. Chawla. Remarkably, the United Alliance secured a resounding victory over the Chawla team. Avtar Singh Bhogal, an industry pioneer from Bhogal Industries, holds the position of Senior Vice President. Satnam Makkar serves as the Vice President, while Rajeev Jain, with 15 years of UCPMA experience, is the General Secretary. Rajinder Singh Sarhali takes on the role of Secretary, and Sonu Makkar assumes the position of Propaganda Secretary. Rohit Raheja, an MBA in finance, is the Finance Secretary, and Vality Ram is the Joint Secretary. The new team shows immense promise and, immediately after winning the election, met with Union Minister of State, Somnath, to address industry issues.

Accomplishments till now:

My most significant achievement lies in providing employment to over 500 individuals. We boast the largest manufacturing capacity for bicycle chains and were the first to produce bush-less chains in India. We are also among the top vendors for prominent bicycle companies. Four years ago, during my tenure as UCPMA Secretary, I led a delegation to the Steel Ministry, successfully stabilizing steel rates and highlighting issues related to GST regulations.

The challenges:

The bicycle and cycle parts industry hold immense importance in Punjab, with origins dating back to 1936. It’s a substantial contributor to India’s bicycle production, particularly in Ludhiana, often referred to as the “bicycle capital.” While large-scale units and the unorganized sector handle complete bicycle production, small-scale sectors play a significant role in development, growth, and export contributions to the cycle industry. Challenges include sourcing raw materials, securing fuel and power, labor retention and recruitment, marketing, and maintaining quality to international standards. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian bicycle industry faced difficulties due to a skewed demand-supply equation.

Future plans:

1. I plan to establish a high-standard reflector plant to meet international standards, given the mandatory installation of reflectors on bicycles.

2. In terms of UCPMA, despite expected challenges, I aim to elevate the association to the next level during my tenure.

Expectations from the government:

The government should invest in infrastructure development for the cycle industry, considering public health, environmental concerns, and fossil fuel conservation.

– Encouraging the infusion of technology, capital, and innovative marketing strategies into the sector is crucial.

– Providing interest-free loans to small manufacturers for executing orders can bolster the industry.

– The government should consider suspending free trade agreements or imposing a minimum floor price for bicycle and parts imports to protect the domestic bicycle industry.

– Introducing freight equalization schemes could aid the industry.

– Offering incentives for quality products can enhance the competitiveness of small-scale industries.

– Implementing strict anti-dumping laws is essential to counter the influx of cheap imports from China.

My Stress-Busters:

I commence my day with prayers at 4:30 am followed by a gym session. On Sundays, I indulge in biking. I’m a nature enthusiast, so one weekend each month, I enjoy the mountains and trekking at my holiday home in Naldera. I own a fleet of five bikes, including BMW sports, cruiser, and Grand America, Ducati, and an Indian Classic limited edition, and I love touring on these bikes.