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India's Semiconductor Future Development

Published on: 17-Sep-2026

Source: PIB

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India's Semiconductor Future Development

Article Summary

India Semiconductor Mission Overview

Government Initiatives:

  • Semicon 1.0 and 2.0:
    • Semicon 1.0: Launched in December 2021 with an allocation of ₹76,000 crore to establish a domestic semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem.
    • Semicon 2.0: Approved on July 15, 2026, with a budget of ₹1,27,500 crore, focusing on enhancing capabilities across six strategic pillars:
      1. Research and Development
      2. Chip Design
      3. Machinery & Materials
      4. Establishment of more fabs
      5. Talent Development
      6. Strengthening the ATMP/OSAT industry.

Economic Data:

  • Global Semiconductor Market Growth: Projected CAGR of 6.5% from 2014-2024, expected to rise to 8.5% over the next 5-10 years.
  • India's Semiconductor Demand: Estimated to reach $110 billion by FY2030 and exceed $200 billion by FY2035.
  • Import Expenditure: India spent approximately $150 billion on semiconductor imports from FY2017 to FY2025, with a CAGR of 23%. If trends continue, by FY2035, annual imports could reach $240 billion.

Strategic Importance:

  • Semiconductors are critical for modern technologies including AI, telecommunications, electric mobility, defense, and advanced manufacturing.
  • They enable innovations in IoT, 5G/6G, data centers, and autonomous vehicles.
  • The geopolitical landscape has highlighted risks in supply chains, prompting major economies to bolster domestic semiconductor capabilities.

Judicial and Legislative Framework:

  • The National Electronics Policy (NPE) 2019 and subsequent schemes (e.g., Production Linked Incentives (PLI)) promote electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.
  • Electronics Manufacturing Policy: Aims to create a robust ecosystem for manufacturing electronic components and semiconductors.

International Collaborations:

  • India has engaged in semiconductor collaborations with the USA, Japan, EU, Singapore, and the Netherlands.
  • A joint declaration on semiconductor ecosystem partnership was signed with Germany during Chancellor's visit in January 2026.

Technological Developments:

  • Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), Mohali: Develops space-grade chips for satellites and space missions.
  • Chandrayaan-3: Featured an Indian-made camera chip for its imaging systems.

Key Achievements under Semicon 1.0:

  • Approval for 12 semiconductor manufacturing units with a proposed investment of over ₹1.64 lakh crore.
  • Five units have commenced commercial production.
  • 24 chip design projects approved, valued at approximately ₹900 crore.
  • Over 500 organizations and 1 lakh engineers are now engaged in advanced chip design.

Future Outlook:

  • The focus is on building a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem from raw materials to finished chips.
  • Aiming for strategic autonomy and high-value employment opportunities within India.
  • Continuous policy support will be crucial for sustaining growth in the semiconductor sector.

Constitutional References:

  • The initiatives align with the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) promoting economic development and self-sufficiency.

Conclusion

India's semiconductor mission is pivotal for technological self-reliance and economic growth, positioning the country as a global semiconductor hub by strengthening domestic capabilities and fostering international collaborations.

Key Terms & Concepts

Semicon 2.0Approved semiconductor initiative
₹1,27,500 croreFunding for Semicon 2.0
15 July 2026Approval date for Semicon 2.0
CAGR 6.5%Global semiconductor market growth
CAGR 23%Import growth rate of semiconductors
₹150 billionSpent on semiconductor imports
₹240 billionProjected annual import by 2035
Semicon 1.0Previous semiconductor initiative
December 2021Approval date for Semicon 1.0
National Electronics Policy 2019Framework for electronics manufacturing
Electronics Manufacturing Cluster Scheme 2.0Support for electronics infrastructure
Aditya-L1 MissionUses radiation-hardened chips

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    International Context:

    • Electrification could aid Indian exporters in complying with international carbon border adjustments, such as the EU's CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism).

    Science and Technology Updates:

    • Opportunity to utilize heat pumps for industrial needs; they can deliver 2.5 to 4 times more heat than traditional electric boilers.
    • Current usage of electric energy in Indian industries is low—around 25%, compared to 50% in China.

    Transition Challenges:

    • High initial costs and slow return on investment for heat pumps are barriers for adoption in Indian industries.
    • Over 90% of heat pumps in India are imported, contributing to vulnerability to supply shocks.

    Market Dynamics:

    • Confidence issues surround energy efficiency claims, as manufacturers use varying standards.
    • Development of Indian-specific standards and a star labeling system for heat pumps is underway to enhance consumer trust.

    Conclusion

    The shift toward electrification in India offers a pathway to reduced fuel dependency and improved energy efficiency in industries and households. The BEE's initiatives and regulatory developments are key to facilitating this transition, supporting both economic growth and environmental objectives.