The Semicon India 2025 event, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, marked a major step in India’s efforts to emerge as a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing and design. The conference highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening the domestic semiconductor ecosystem, with a particular emphasis on developing homegrown semiconductor intellectual property (IP).
One of the key announcements was the unveiling of “Vikram,” a fully indigenous 32-bit microprocessor developed by ISRO’s Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL). The processor is engineered to withstand the extreme conditions of space launch vehicles, showcasing India’s ability to design advanced chips locally. The development was presented as a milestone in the country’s journey toward technological self-reliance.
It also underlined the government’s broader semiconductor strategy, which includes more than $18 billion in approved projects, the construction of five fabrication and assembly units, and policy support through programs such as the India Semiconductor Mission, Production Linked Incentive (PLI), and Design Linked Incentive (DLI) schemes. Efforts are being made to streamline approvals and provide a supportive regulatory environment to encourage greater industry participation and investment.
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However, industry experts noted that India still faces significant challenges. These include an underdeveloped supply chain, a shortage of specialized talent, limited domestic production of raw materials like silicon wafers and specialty gases, and gaps in infrastructure such as reliable power and ultra-pure water supply—both critical for semiconductor fabs.
To address these issues, long-term plans are being rolled out, including skill development programs with the aim of training tens of thousands of semiconductor professionals by 2030. Investments in infrastructure, research, and innovation will also be required for India to become globally competitive.
Analysts suggest that while India has made rapid progress in policy-making and project approvals, creating a resilient and self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem will require sustained efforts over the next decade.