In a significant development for India’s technology sector, the Union Minister for Communications and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced on Friday that the first Made-in-India chips are expected to be rolled out by December 2024. The minister also revealed plans to establish 4-5 semiconductor plants in the country within a year, highlighting the potential for job creation.
During a media briefing following a joint statement issued by US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the United States, Minister Vaishnaw expressed confidence in the progress being made. He disclosed that crucial steps such as land allocation, factory design work, and tax compliance-related agreements for the Micron semiconductor plant in Gujarat have already been completed.
Micron, a leading computer storage chip manufacturer, will invest a total of USD 2.75 billion (approximately Rs 22,540 crore) to establish its semiconductor assembly and test plant in Gujarat. The project will be carried out in two phases, with Micron contributing USD 825 million and the government providing the remaining funds. The construction of the facility, expected to commence in 2023, will encompass 500,000 square feet of planned clean room space. Phase 1 is scheduled to become operational in late 2024.
The establishment of these semiconductor plants in India holds significant promise for job creation. Micron has stated that the facility is projected to generate up to 5,000 new direct jobs and an additional 15,000 community jobs over the coming years. This development aligns with the government’s emphasis on boosting domestic manufacturing and creating employment opportunities.
The rollout of the first Made-in-India chip by December 2024 is anticipated to be a major milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance its self-reliance in semiconductor production. As India positions itself as a significant player in the global chip manufacturing landscape, the establishment of multiple semiconductor plants will contribute to technological advancement and foster innovation in various sectors.