In a major political development, prominent Jalandhar industrialist Nitin Kohli on Thursday joined the Aam Aadmi Party on May 29, 2025. His induction could be a strategic move by the ruling AAP to project him as its official candidate from the Jalandhar Central constituency in the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. Nitin Kohli was inducted into the party by AAP Punjab Incharge Manish Sisodia, AAP Punjab President Aman Arora, AAP Punjab Working President Sherry Kalsi, and Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat. The event took place today at 1:00 PM at the Radisson Hotel, Jalandhar.
In an exclusive conversation with True Scoop, Nitin Kohli expressed gratitude to the higher command for showing faith in him. He hinted that he has solid plans regarding the development of the city. He also emphasised that these plans will not just be on paper and brought to life under the guidance of AAP.
Known for his leadership across business, education, and sports sectors, Nitin Kohli has built a strong reputation in Jalandhar and beyond. His entry is expected to further strengthen AAP’s position in the Doaba region. Now, the question arises: Who is Nitin Kohli? Below is all you need to know-
Who is Nitin Kohli?
Known as one of the most prominent industrialists in Jalandhar, Nitin Kohli is a name that is known across diverse sectors. From business to education to sports to local politics, Nitin Kohli has made a name for himself with his dynamic leadership and sharp strategic acumen.
Kohli's passion for sports, especially India's National Sport- hockey- is remarkable. After completing his graduation, he joined his family business Vijayanti, a popular brand known for manufacturing world class hockeys. In doing so, he took his father’s legacy brand to the next level and created a name for himself in the field of hockey worldwide. Looking at his dedication to the sport, he was then appointed as Joint Secretary, Hockey Punjab for 7 years. Later, he was made President of Hockey Punjab in 2017. Last month, he was appointed as the Vice President of Hockey India, giving him the chance to bring reform on a national level. Kohli has been instrumental in nurturing local talent and pushing for structural reforms.
At the helm of several organizations, Nitin Kohli currently serves as the Chairman of the Punjab Leather Federation and Managing Director of Hike Shoe Pvt Ltd. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Tracer, a popular sports shoe brand.
Founded on a simple yet impactful vision, Tracer was created to provide stylish, comfortable, and high-quality footwear for the common man, without the premium price tag. Kohli believed that access to top-tier products should not be limited by income, and Tracer stands today as a testament to that belief.
He is also the President of SPORTTX, or the Sports and Toys Exporters Association. It is a trade association for sports and toy manufacturers, exporters, and their partners. Its primary goal is to create a platform where these stakeholders can collaborate and benefit mutually, acting as a bridge between manufacturers, suppliers, consumers, and other partners.
Nitin Kohli's commitment to education is reflected in his role as Chairman of Cambridge International School Co-Ed, located near PIMS, Jalandhar.
Despite his public achievements, much of Kohli’s political influence operates out of the spotlight. His behind-the-scenes involvement in politics, combined with his ability to build consensus and solve complex problems, has earned him respect across party lines.