The growth of India's semiconductor ecosystem will not only enhance its economic strength but also reinforce its strategic position in the rapidly evolving global tech landscape. As the country accelerates its efforts in semiconductor manufacturing, it is expected to become a vital node in the global semiconductor supply chain, creating opportunities for employment, innovation, and technological advancement in the years to come. In fact, India is steadily carving its place as a global hub in the semiconductor industry, propelled by its ambitious Programme for Development of Semiconductors and Display Manufacturing Ecosystem. Launched on December 21, 2021, with a substantial outlay of Rs 76,000 crore, this initiative aimed at establishing a comprehensive semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem in the country, making India a key player in the global technology supply chain. India's journey towards becoming a semiconductor hub gained momentum with various government initiatives and strategic investments. The government's ambitious Production Linked Incentive scheme for electronics manufacturing has attracted major global players to set up semiconductor fabrication units (fabs) in the country. Companies like Intel, Samsung, and TSMC are exploring opportunities to establish semiconductor manufacturing facilities, which could potentially position India as a key global manufacturing hub. India boasts of a robust ecosystem for semiconductor research and development. Academic institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) are at the forefront of semiconductor research. They collaborate with industry leaders and international research bodies to innovate and develop cutting-edge semiconductor technologies. The availability of a skilled workforce is pivotal to India's semiconductor ambitions. The country's large pool of engineering talent, nurtured through its extensive network of technical institutions, contributes significantly to the semiconductor industry. Specialised programmes and initiatives focusing on semiconductor design and manufacturing have been launched to bridge the skill gap and ensure a steady supply of qualified professionals.
It cannot be gainsaid that India's semiconductor ecosystem thrives on strategic partnerships and collaborations with global industry leaders and research institutions. Collaborative efforts in areas such as technology transfer, joint research projects, and knowledge sharing enhance India's capabilities in semiconductor design, manufacturing, and testing. The Indian market presents substantial opportunities for semiconductor manufacturers. With a burgeoning consumer electronics market, increasing adoption of advanced technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence, and Internet of Things (IoT), there is a growing demand for semiconductors in India. Domestic consumption coupled with export potential positions India as a promising market for semiconductor products. Despite the progress, India faces challenges such as infrastructure development, policy alignment, and regulatory frameworks. Addressing these challenges is crucial for creating an enabling environment that supports sustainable growth in semiconductor manufacturing and design. India's journey to becoming a global hub in the semiconductor industry is marked by strategic initiatives, investments in R&D, a skilled talent pool, and market opportunities. With continued efforts and collaborations, India is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of semiconductor technologies, contributing to global innovation and economic growth. As India advances towards achieving self-reliance in semiconductor manufacturing and enhancing its global footprint, stakeholders across industry, academia, and government continue to collaborate towards realising this ambitious vision.
By Deepak Kumar Rath
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