The Russian Army’s use of the “Made in Bihar” boots has garnered international acclaim, which is a major accomplishment for India’s defence manufacturing industry. Competence Exports, a Hajipur, Bihar-based business that has been in business since 2018, makes these boots.
The facility specialises in producing safety shoes that are specifically made for the Russian market. These shoes must be lightweight, non-slip, and able to survive harsh weather conditions, including temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius.
These boots’ inclusion in the Russian military’s gear demonstrates India’s increasing defence manufacturing independence. In contrast to its prior reliance on imports, recent sources indicate that 65% of India’s defence equipment is now produced locally. This move is a component of the larger “Make in India” campaign, which seeks to strengthen domestic production capacities and lessen reliance on outside vendors.
Competence Exports, which sold almost 1.5 million pairs of boots worth ₹100 crore last year alone, has become one of India’s biggest exporters to Russia. As part of a diversification strategy that could increase its export potential, the company is also adding luxury designer shoes to its catalogue for European markets.
With 70% of its workers being women, the company’s managing director has stated goals to build a top-tier manufacturing facility in Bihar, greatly boosting local employment.
The popularity of “Made in Bihar” boots not only demonstrates the calibre and standards of Indian manufacture, but it also shows how the nation is strategically moving to become a major force in the world’s defence industry.
