From Humble Beginnings to Global Impact: The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Lakhbir Singh Sokhi

Some stories show how determination, innovation, and empathy can transform lives, both one’s own and those of others. Dr. Lakhbir Singh Sokhi embodies this journey. Born on February 5, 1949, in Lakheri, Rajasthan, he rose from modest beginnings to make a global impact, guided by determination, innovation, and a commitment to human welfare.

The Making Years

Dr. Lakhbir was raised in a modest colony around the ACC Cement Factory. His father, S. Joginder Singh Sokhi, migrated from Punjab and worked as a machinist at the factory. Despite hardships, including losing ancestral land, his father’s determination to rise above adversity—by earning an engineering diploma and securing stable employment—instilled resilience in young Lakhbir.

He began his education at ACC Company School, showing academic brilliance and engaging actively in extracurriculars. Early recognition came when he delivered an impactful English speech on Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Recognising his son’s potential, his father enrolled him in Khalsa School, Tarn Taran, Punjab, where he adapted to English-medium instruction and excelled in science subjects.

Entrepreneurial Journey

During higher secondary school, Lakhbir started a poultry business—not for profit but to help a classmate afford college. This venture also provided him with a steady income to support his own education. He pursued non-medical science at D.A.V. College, Amritsar, defying his father’s vocational preference. Juggling academics and entrepreneurship taught him financial independence, time management, and self-discipline.

However, his journey was not without hardship. While in college, during political unrest at Amritsar Railway Station, he and his peers were wrongly arrested. Though the ordeal disrupted his education, he persevered and completed his graduation. But limited job opportunities for science graduates prompted him to seek unconventional paths. He was accepted into Heald’s Engineering College, San Francisco, but the 1966 Indian currency devaluation derailed his plans. Later, the 1971 India-Pakistan war caused blackouts that crippled his poultry business. Refusing to give up, he shifted to international trade, launching The New Standard Export Enterprises. While he secured significant export orders, bureaucratic challenges and restrictive banking policies limited the venture’s success. Lakhbir expanded his vision, founding Sokhi International Enterprises for global trade and consultancy and Gem-Guru Agrotech Pvt. Ltd., focusing on agricultural innovation and sustainable technology.

Awards & Accolades

Driven to address systemic inefficiencies, he joined the Indian Society of International Law, gaining expertise in legal and international trade frameworks. In industrial consultancy, he made a breakthrough with a low-cost vegetable dehydration process, earning the Vijay Shree Award (1998) and the Gem of India Award (2000). His research in solar-powered technology has also contributed to rural development in parts of Madhya Pradesh.

Humanitarian Leadership

In recognition of decades-long service to peace and justice, Dr. Sokhi received the World Peace Appreciation Certificate from the InLove Humanity Mission on January 23, 2024, honouring his global contributions to human rights. Continuing his legacy, he now serves as the President of Neo-Infra Inheritance Welfare Foundation, a Section 8 non-profit registered in Tarn Taran, Punjab. Officially recognised on May 5, 2025, the organisation addresses Dalit upliftment, food processing, clean water, civic issues, human rights, MSME support, and renewable energy initiatives.

Holding an honorary Ph.D. in legal studies, Dr. Lakhbir Singh Sokhi remains a vocal advocate for grassroots development and judicial reform. His journey, from a humble factory colony to global recognition, demonstrates how empathy, innovation, and determination can transform both personal destiny and the lives of others.