India is set to emerge as a global power in semiconductor manufacturing, comparable to its advancements in technology, nuclear, and digital domains, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the foundation laying ceremony for three new semiconductor plants, including two in Gujarat and one in Assam, Modi emphasized the strategic advantage and global hub status these projects would bring, with Tata Group leading two of the initiatives. The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of semiconductor production for achieving self-reliance and modernity, positioning India as a major player in the technology-driven 21st century.
Modi underscored the importance of the semiconductor industry, not only as a standalone sector but also as a catalyst for advancements in transportation and communication. He acknowledged the delays India faced in semiconductor manufacturing in the past and expressed the need to catch up. The government’s Atmanirbhar and Make in India initiatives, including production incentive schemes, aim to make Indian manufacturers globally competitive, attract investments, enhance exports, and integrate India into the global supply chain.
The Prime Minister pointed out that the semiconductor industry holds immense potential for revenue and employment generation, emphasizing its role in technological advancements. Union Minister for Information and Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, noted the efforts made since the 1960s to establish a semiconductor ecosystem and highlighted the various applications of semiconductors across appliances, equipment, vehicles, and electronic devices.
Chairman of TATA Sons, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, emphasized the foundational role of semiconductors for digital products and the importance of indigenous manufacturing for national security and innovation. Tata Group’s commitment to creating 50,000 jobs through semiconductor projects was emphasized, signaling a significant step toward meeting India’s chip demand.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed gratitude for including the northeast region in the technological revolution, highlighting the historical significance of semiconductor plants being established in the state.
The approval for three new semiconductor units, part of the Development of Semiconductors and Display Manufacturing Ecosystems in India initiative, signifies a pivotal moment for India’s semiconductor industry. The units, led by Tata Electronics, CG Power, and Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test, are expected to generate direct and indirect employment, fostering growth in various industries.
The semiconductor industry in India, while in a nascent stage, is poised for significant expansion, with multinational companies recognizing its potential. The government’s focus on semiconductor manufacturing aligns with the broader goals of self-reliance, innovation, and global competitiveness.