Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed on July 4 that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate India's third semiconductor plant in Sanand, Gujarat, today. The facility, operated by CG Semi's OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) unit, marks the commencement of commercial production and represents a critical step in reducing India's dependence on imported chips.
Sixty-Year Vision Realized
Speaking to media on the sidelines of the event, Vaishnaw stated that the semiconductor industry has been a national priority for the last six decades. "Finally, it was possible with the vision and execution of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he said. The minister highlighted the rapid pace of execution: the first plant was inaugurated in Sanand on February 28, the second on March 31, and the third today, July 4. This acceleration underscores the government's commitment to building a robust domestic semiconductor ecosystem and strengthening India's position in the global value chain.
Infrastructure Announcements for Ahmedabad
Alongside the semiconductor milestone, Vaishnaw unveiled five key infrastructure decisions aimed at easing urban mobility and upgrading rail connectivity in Ahmedabad. First, an underpass is being constructed in Omnagar, with officials instructed to complete the work before Navratri. Second, a new master plan for Asarwa station, one of Ahmedabad's oldest areas, includes a new station and development of the surrounding zone as a major terminal, with the DRM office also located there.
Third, a second entry from Saranpur will be created at Ahmedabad station to improve access and enable development on that side. Vaishnaw noted that Ahmedabad station is already being developed as a world-class facility. To address congestion, a flyover from Shahpur was discussed with the Monument Authority; the minister spoke to Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on phone and received assurance of full cooperation. Fourth, an extension of the station road from Sabarmati to Sabarmati station was discussed, with a detailed master plan already prepared.
Bullet Train Progress
Vaishnaw also provided an update on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project, stating that work is progressing very fast and is now almost 80% complete. The first section from Surat to Bilimora will be inaugurated next year in 2027, followed by Vapi to Surat, Vapi to Ahmedabad, Ahmedabad to Thane, and finally Ahmedabad to Mumbai. "A lot of hope for the country has been fulfilled for many years," he added.
