India's Semiconductor Ambition Gets a Major Boost

In a significant move towards achieving self-reliance in the semiconductor sector, the Union Cabinet has greenlit four groundbreaking semiconductor projects with a collective investment of Rs 4,594 crore. Notably, these projects have attracted the backing of US tech behemoth Intel and aerospace leader Lockheed Martin.

Strategic Locations and Investments

The projects are set to be established in Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh, as announced by IT & Electronics Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. This initiative is part of the India Semiconductor Mission, which aims to bolster the country's semiconductor manufacturing capabilities with an initial outlay of Rs 76,000 crore.

Breaking New Ground

"This marks the dawn of a new industry in India, a breakthrough after decades of attempts," stated Vaishnaw. The minister highlighted the growing demand for semiconductors and expressed confidence in India's ability to meet this demand through these projects, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat program.

Project Highlights

Among the approved projects is a silicon carbide semiconductor plant in Bhubaneswar, with an investment of Rs 2,066 crore by SiCsem Pvt Ltd. This facility is expected to produce 9.6 crore chips annually, catering to high-temperature applications in missiles, satellites, and more.

Additionally, a 3D Glass semiconductor manufacturing unit in Odisha, backed by Intel and Lockheed Martin, promises to produce five crore units yearly. A chip packaging plant in Andhra Pradesh and a semiconductor project in Punjab further diversify India's semiconductor manufacturing landscape.

Looking Ahead

With the electronics manufacturing sector witnessing exponential growth, these semiconductor projects are timely. India is also set to host Semicon India 2025, in collaboration with Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, and Korea, signaling its rising prominence in the global semiconductor arena.