PM Modi Champions Self-Reliance at India Chip Pvt Ltd Foundation Ceremony
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a virtual address on Saturday, underscored the critical role of self-reliance in shaping India's technological destiny. He declared that a developed India hinges on achieving atmanirbharta (self-reliance), with domestically manufactured chips being pivotal to this vision.
Addressing Global Semiconductor Shortages and India's Strategic Response
Reflecting on the Covid-19 pandemic's disruptions, PM Modi highlighted how the global semiconductor chip shortage crippled economies and stalled factory production worldwide. He positioned India's current technological endeavors as foundational for its 21st-century capabilities, stating that initiatives in this decade will define future strengths.
The Prime Minister detailed India's semiconductor ambitions, noting that under the Semiconductor Mission, the government has approved 10 fabrication and packaging projects, with four units slated to begin production imminently. He welcomed the entry of major corporations like Foxconn into India's chip manufacturing sector, framing it as a step toward reducing dependency and enhancing global leadership.
Details of the New Semiconductor Facility in Greater Noida
The foundation stone was laid for India Chip Pvt Ltd, a 60:40 joint venture between HCL Group and Foxconn, involving an investment of Rs 3,700 crore. Located in the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) area at Jewar, Greater Noida, this Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly & Test (OSAT) facility is expected to commence operations by 2028.
Key features of the plant include:
- Manufacturing display driver chips to meet India's growing domestic demand for semiconductor components.
- Processing capacity of up to 20,000 wafers per month, equivalent to 3.6 crore chips monthly.
- Generation of over 3,500 direct and indirect jobs, fostering local supply chains and attracting ecosystem partners.
Government and Industry Leaders Laud the Initiative
Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw praised the Prime Minister's efforts over the past 11 years, which have positioned India as an electronics manufacturing powerhouse, now ranking third globally in electronics exports. He emphasized that the Jewar plant will produce the "brain" of digital screens, marking a significant milestone in domestic production.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described Jewar as a "jewel" for both the state and the nation, aligning its development with the Prime Minister's chip manufacturing vision.
Bob Chen, President of Foxconn's Semiconductor Business Group, expressed commitment to establishing a reliable semiconductor assembly and testing facility in India, aiming to contribute to the country's growth in the global technology landscape.
HCL Group Chairperson Roshni Nadar highlighted that the facility will cater to both domestic and international markets, positioning India as a key player in the global semiconductor sector.
Broader Implications for India's Global Standing
PM Modi framed the collaboration with companies like Foxconn as sending a global message that democratic India is a trusted partner. He noted that India's recognition as the world's factory represents a win-win scenario, benefiting both the nation and its international allies by strengthening a resilient and self-reliant chip supply chain.
This initiative is poised to bolster India's technological infrastructure, reduce import reliance, and enhance its competitiveness in the high-stakes semiconductor industry, aligning with broader goals of economic growth and innovation.
