Balu Forge Industries Ltd. (BFIL) is a precision engineering company based in Belgaum, Karnataka, known for its high-performance forged and machined components. Established in 1990, the company began with a focused mission of manufacturing crankshafts for single and two-cylinder engines. Over the decades, it has transformed into a global force, supplying to OEMs and Tier 1 players across the automotive, defence, aerospace, and rail sectors in more than 80 countries.
Mr. Jaikaran Singh Chandock, Director at Balu Forge and the youngest leader in the company’s history in conversation with Machine Maker shared the key pillars that have driven their growth and the exciting roadmap ahead
Founded by Mr. Prehlad Singh Chandock, Balu Forge was the first company in India to mass-produce crankshafts for tractors, trucks, and passenger cars. Over the decades, it established a reputation for durable, reliable components. But the company’s modern era, steered by Jaikaran since 2014, reflects a bold shift: a move from traditional manufacturing to high-precision engineering, backed by cutting-edge R&D, global partnerships, and an eye on future-ready industries like defence, aerospace, and railways. “Our strength lies in our vertical integration and adaptability,” says Jaikaran. “We are scaling thoughtfully—with a foundation built on technology, quality, and a truly global vision.”
Forging Ahead: Balu Forge’s Global-Scale Expansion Plan
One of Balu Forge’s most defining developments is its 46-acre fully integrated forging and machining campus in Belgaum. Post the acquisition and commercialization of the Mercedes-Benz precision machining plant in Mannheim, Germany, the company’s machining capacity soared to 32,000 MTPA. With further acquisitions and the integration of three new forging lines, their forging capacity has now reached 72,000 MTPA—and this is just Phase One.
“We’re not just expanding capacity, we’re future-proofing it,” explains Jaikaran. This includes the incorporation of 7-axis precision machining, closed-die forging hammers, and high-tonnage presses—all part of a broader infrastructure roadmap that spans advanced materials, automation, and sustainability.
The company’s in-house R&D team of 75 engineers works across metallurgy, design, tooling, and testing. Advanced machining, additive manufacturing for rapid prototyping, and proprietary material chemistry research form the backbone of Balu’s capability to cater to mission-critical industries.
“We’ve adopted automated robotics, anti-vibration forging systems from GERB Germany, and digital simulation tools to ensure quality, scalability, and efficiency,” says Jaikaran. “These innovations allow us to move beyond conventional manufacturing and become true engineering partners to our clients.”
Driving Global Growth Through Diversification and Sustainability
BFIL’s portfolio isn’t limited to automotive. Today, its components find applications across agriculture, defence, aerospace, railways, and oil & gas. This strategic diversification not only insulates the company from industry-specific volatility but also opens doors to emerging high-value markets.
Notably, the company’s OEM journey took a giant leap with the Mercedes-Benz plant acquisition, enabling Balu Forge to serve Class 7 and Class 8 commercial vehicle segments globally. With this came a heightened emphasis on compliance, certifications, and quality assurance. BFIL holds ISO/TS 16949, ISO 45001, and ISO 14001 certifications, ensuring that its products meet global safety, quality, and sustainability standards.
For Balu Forge, sustainability isn’t just about emission norms—it’s a fundamental value. The company ensures eco-compliance across its entire supply chain, emphasizes energy conservation, and uses digitally monitored systems to manage emissions and resource use.
“Sustainability is a core responsibility,” Jaikaran emphasizes. “We have a dedicated team monitoring our carbon footprint, working on offsets, and ensuring complete visibility across the value chain.” Their supplier code mandates strict environmental, legal, and ethical practices, and every process—from sourcing to manufacturing is evaluated for its environmental impact.
With partnerships in over 25 global OEMs and a client base spanning Europe, MENA, and the Americas, Balu Forge is already a recognized name in the global engineering map. But Jaikaran sees much more ahead.
“We’re building for scale, but also for agility,” he says. Strategic collaborations, customer feedback loops, and digital transformation have become cornerstones of the company’s customer-centric model. As Industry 4.0 technologies gain traction, Balu Forge is actively deploying IoT-enabled CNC systems, AI-driven predictive maintenance, and digital twins to optimize operations and support its growth ambitions.
With a recently announced ₹500 crore fundraise, the company is well-capitalized for its next leap—whether in fixed asset acquisitions, product diversification, or entering new geographies.
Eyes on 2030: Vision with Purpose
Looking ahead, Jaikaran’s vision is clear, to position Balu Forge among the top precision engineering companies in the world. The plan includes ramping up capacities, expanding its footprint in sectors like defence and aerospace, and leveraging India’s policy momentum under Make in India and PLI schemes. “India’s manufacturing evolution is only beginning,” he reflects. “With the right talent, tech, and tenacity, we’re ready to make Balu Forge a symbol of precision and performance global.
Balu Forge Industries is more than just a manufacturing firm—it’s a vision in motion. Backed by legacy, fueled by innovation, and led by a dynamic new generation, the company is forging a future that puts India firmly on the global engineering map.
