On March 13 at 10:30 am, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a significant speech called “India’s Techade, Chips for Viksit Bharat” which resonated with the youth across the nation. The event was closely monitored by various sectors, including academia, industry, and the public, and was live streamed as per the directive given by University Grants Commission (UGC) to ensure widespread accessibility and user engagement.
The mission aims to establish a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem within India, positioning the nation as one of the significant players in the global semiconductor industry. The three semiconductor facilities include India’s First Fab Facility in Dholera, Gujarat, and OSAT facilities in Sanand (Gujarat), and OSAT in Morigaon (Assam). These represent crucial components of this mission and play a pivotal role in manufacturing semiconductor chips and providing packaging and testing services, which will be essential for boosting India’s semiconductor capabilities.
Universities and higher educational institutions (HEIs) are directed to ensure the participation of students, particularly those who are involved in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and technical disciplines, highlighting the importance of nurturing talent and fostering a skilled workforce that can support the semiconductor ecosystem. Students and youths are recognised as key stakeholders in this government endeavour, highlighting the government’s emphasis on empowering the next generation to contribute to India’s technological advancement and innovation agenda.
During his speech, the term “Techade” was used by Prime Minister Modi to express a comprehensive vision for India’s technological advancement over the coming decade. He emphasised on the important role of semiconductor chips and how it can drive India towards the vision of a “Viksit Bharat (Developed India)”. This emphasis on semiconductor chips throws light on the importance of homegrown manufacturing in achieving technological self-reliance and strengthening the nation’s economic resilience and national security.
It is clearly visible that a concerted effort to promote indigenous semiconductor manufacturing, research, and innovation is being made through this alignment between the Prime Minister’s address and the India Semiconductor Mission. Through the engagement of universities and HEIs in this initiative, the government plans to leverage the academic community’s expertise and resources to support the development of a robust semiconductor ecosystem and fulfill self-reliant and technologically advanced India vision.
Reiterating his belief in technology, the PM said that it is capable of catalysing socio-economic development across various sectors. He also emphasised on leveraging technological innovations in order to address the ongoing challenges and unlock new opportunities for better progress.
Given the global semiconductor shortages and India’s aspirations for technological self-reliance, PM Modi also outlined strategies and future initiatives aimed at promoting indigenous semiconductor manufacturing. This includes policies that will attract investment, encourage research and development, and nurture a robust ecosystem for semiconductor production within the country.
Moreover, recognising the critical role of skilled human capital required in the technology sector, PM Modi highlighted the initiatives required to enhance skill development and education in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, internet of things, and semiconductor manufacturing. While advocating for self-reliance, Prime Minister Modi also highlighted the major role of international partnerships and collaborations in tech transfer, research, and market accessibility. He also outlined various policy measures and incentives aimed at promoting semiconductor manufacturing, startup ecosystem, research and development, and ease of doing business in the technology sector.
PM Modi also underscored the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and government in driving technological innovation and research. Initiatives that will strengthen partnerships between universities, research institutions, and the private sector to accelerate the development and adoption of cutting-edge technologies were also discussed.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address on “India’s Techade, Chips for Viksit Bharat” marked a crucial milestone in shaping India’s technological trajectory by setting an agenda for national priorities, policies, and initiatives that can foster innovative growth and self-reliance in the semiconductor sector.
