Hajipur is the second-fastest-developing city after Patna in Bihar and it is making waves internationally with its production of footwear, including safety shoes for the Russian Army and designer shoes for European markets.
Competence Exports, a private limited company based in Hajipur, specialises in manufacturing safety shoes for Russian companies. General Manager Shib Kumar Roy highlighted the company’s focus on generating local employment, stating, “We started the Hajipur facility in 2018 with the aim of creating local jobs. We produce safety shoes tailored for export to Russia, with plans to expand to Europe and eventually the domestic market.”
Regarding shoes for the Russian Army, Roy elaborated, “Their requirements are that shoes should be lightweight, slip-resistant, have special features in the sole, and withstand extreme weather conditions like -40 degrees Celsius. We manufacture the safety shoes, considering these conditions.”
The company has garnered significant success and is among the largest exporters to Russia. Roy expressed optimism about future growth, aiming to increase exports by 50 per cent next year.
Addressing the employment aspect, Roy noted, “The ambition of the company’s MD, Danesh Prasad, is to make a world-class factory in Bihar and contribute to the State employment. We are trying our best to give maximum employment to employees, of which 70 per cent are women out of 300 employees.”
Last year, Competence Exports exported 1.5 million pairs of shoes worth Rs 100 crores, with plans for further expansion. However, Roy highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and skilled manpower in Bihar to sustain and accelerate growth.
In addition to safety shoes, the Hajipur facility also exports luxury designer footwear to European markets, including Italy, France, Spain, and the UK. Mazhar Pallumiah, head of fashion development and marketing, expressed the company’s aspirations to collaborate with international brands and expand its market presence.
Despite initial challenges, including skepticism from foreign companies, Pallumiah remains optimistic about the future. He emphasized the importance of vision and government support in overcoming obstacles and propelling the fashion industry forward in Bihar and Hajipur.
