India has made vital strides in bolstering its home protection manufacturing capabilities. Traditionally reliant on imports for about 65-70% of its protection wants, the nation now produces roughly 65% of its protection gear domestically. This transformation displays the resilience and development of India’s protection manufacturing sector, pushed by 16 Protection Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), over 430 licensed personal corporations, and practically 16,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) throughout the nation.
A notable instance of this progress is the contribution of Bihar’s Hajipur-based Competence Exports. Established in 2018, this personal firm has emerged as a major participant in world footwear manufacturing. It has equipped 1.5 million pairs of specialised navy boots, valued at ₹100 crore, to the Russian military. The power employs round 300 staff, with 70% being ladies, and plans to extend manufacturing by 50% within the coming 12 months.
These developments underscore India’s dedication to reaching self-reliance in protection manufacturing, aligning with the broader purpose of ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance), and spotlight the rising world recognition of Indian-manufactured protection gear.