The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, today inaugurated SemiconIndia 2023 at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, under the theme ‘Catalysing India’s Semiconductor Ecosystem.’ The conference, a pivotal event for the semiconductor industry, unveiled India’s vision to become a global hub for semiconductor design, manufacturing, and technology development. Industry leaders expressed their support and announced significant investments that will propel India’s semiconductor journey to new heights.
President and CEO of SEMI, Ajit Minocha, hailed the alignment of geopolitics, domestic politics, and private sector capacities, calling it a historic opportunity for India to emerge as a major player in semiconductor production. He emphasized the importance of visionary leadership in shaping India’s semiconductor ecosystem and confidently stated that India is poised to be the next powerhouse in semiconductor technology in Asia.
In a groundbreaking announcement, Mark Papermaster, EVP and CTO of AMD, revealed that AMD will invest approximately $400 million over the next 5 years to enhance its research and development capabilities. The company is set to establish its largest design center in Bengaluru, showcasing the confidence in India’s potential for semiconductor innovation.
Dr Prabu Raja, President of Semiconductor Product Group at Applied Materials, applauded Prime Minister Modi’s vision, stating that India is on the path to play a central role in the global semiconductor industry. He emphasized the need for collaborative partnerships and expressed gratitude for being considered a valuable partner in India’s semiconductor vision.
Anirudh Devgan, President and CEO of Cadence, expressed delight at India’s increasing investment in the semiconductor sector and appreciated the government’s commitment to developing the entire ecosystem.
Anil Aggrawal, Chairman of the Vedanta Group, highlighted Gujarat’s suitability as the potential ‘Silicon Valley of India’ and praised the Prime Minister’s efforts in creating new opportunities for India’s youth, propelling the country’s transformation.
Sanjay Mehrotra, President and CEO of Micron Technology, thanked Prime Minister Modi for envisioning India as a global semiconductor hub. He expressed pride in Micron’s investment in Gujarat, which is set to create thousands of jobs and stimulate local economic growth. He lauded the government’s support for fostering innovation, business growth, and social progress in the country through initiatives like Digital India and Make in India.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of SemiconIndia as a platform for experts and industry leaders to collaborate and synchronize efforts. He commended the industry’s transformational shift from questioning why to invest in India to embracing India as a prime investment destination.
Drawing parallels with Moore’s Law, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s exponential growth in the digital and electronic manufacturing sector. He revealed that India’s electronic manufacturing share in the global market has significantly increased and the export of electronics and mobile devices has doubled in the last two years. The Prime Minister underscored the pivotal role of Indian aspirations in driving the development of the semiconductor industry.
Prime Minister Modi assured the industry of India’s commitment to reliable supply chains, emphasizing that India is a trusted partner due to its stable, responsible, and reform-oriented government. He outlined the comprehensive roadmap being developed in collaboration with friendly countries, building a vibrant semiconductor ecosystem in India. The Prime Minister highlighted key policy reforms and incentives aimed at attracting semiconductor investments and fostering growth in the sector.
Reflecting on India’s G20 theme of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future,’ Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s commitment to becoming a semiconductor manufacturing hub for global good. He welcomed the industry’s participation and pledged unwavering government support at every step.
