BILLION-RUPEE BETS & BOTTLENECKS

India's bold push to become a global semiconductor hub is gathering momentum, but gaps in infrastructure, certification, and ecosystem readiness remain the biggest test

- By Kashish Saxena

INDIA used Semicon 2025 in New Delhi to make a clear statement -- it aims to move beyond its role as a semiconductor design hub and establish itself as a global manufacturing leader. The country's intent was underscored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who described semiconductors as the "digital diamonds" of the century, adding with a flourish that "when the chips are down, you can bet on India." As part of the message, Modi unveiled the Vikram 32-bit processor, developed by ISRO's Semiconductor Lab in Chandigarh for space applications. The launch was symbolic, but it also demonstrated that India already has the capability to design sophisticated chips even as it works to build out the infrastructure for mass manufacturing.

Big Bets, Bigger Numbers

Behind the speeches lay the financial commitments. The government has committed Rs 76,000 crore under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), of which Rs 65,000 crore has already been allocated. Ten projects worth Rs 1.6 lakh crore have been approved across six states, including fabrication units, assembly and testing facilities, and advanced packaging plants. Major announcements include Micron's Rs 22,500 crore ATMP facility in Sanand, the Tata-Powerchip fab in Dholera at Rs 91,000 crore, and the HCL-Foxconn joint venture in Jewar at Rs 3,700 crore. The pitch was bold, but even among the optimism, industry voices revealed a mix of confidence and caution.

Global Lens: Watchful Engagement