Government to launch first indigenous semiconductor chip amid sector growth
Economic Times, 28 Mar '25
India is set to introduce its first indigenous semiconductor chip, with five semiconductor units currently under construction in the country, Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw stated on 27th March, 2025.
Speaking at the Times Now Summit, the Minister emphasised that India's electronics manufacturing sector, once negligible, has now become one of the top three export sectors.
"We have five semiconductor units under construction and will soon witness the rollout of India's first indigenous chip, with significant growth in telecom manufacturing," he stated.
The Minister highlighted that India had previously missed opportunities due to restrictive laws, but substantial reforms in recent years have facilitated rapid growth. He attributed the country's economic progress to a clear policy framework established by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, structured around four key pillars.
"The first pillar is public investment in infrastructure, with the government allocating nearly Rs. 11 trillion (US$ 132.1 billion) towards social, digital, and physical infrastructure. As a result, India has become the second-largest 5G market globally, and the Indian Railways is set to become the second-largest carrier, transporting 1.6 billion tonnes of freight this year," he stated.
The second pillar, according to the Minister, is the expansion of the manufacturing sector. He reiterated that India had previously lost manufacturing opportunities due to stringent regulations, but reforms have now enabled the sector to flourish.
"Our country missed opportunities in the past due to restrictive laws, but significant change is now underway," he said.
The Minister further added that the government has prioritised inclusive development, benefiting nearly 80 crore people. Initiatives such as household sanitation have transformed lives, with 13 crore people gaining access to toilets.
Addressing legal and economic reforms, he stated that the government has introduced three new laws to reform the criminal justice system, describing them as the most significant legal reforms since Independence.
Vaishnaw expressed confidence that these measures would enable India to sustain a growth rate of 6-8 per cent in the coming years. He urged investors to act swiftly, highlighting the country's increasing demand and investment potential.
India's economy, valued at Rs. 331 trillion, has recorded an investment rate of approximately 31 per cent, with substantial contributions from both the government and the private sector.
"The numbers speak for themselves, making this a timely opportunity for investment, with a focus on technology and productivity," he stated.
With ongoing infrastructure development, the rapid expansion of electronics and telecom manufacturing, and progressive policy reforms, India is positioning itself as a global technology and economic powerhouse.