"WE ARE FOCUSED ON BUILDING A RESILIENT AND SELF-SUSTAINING SEMICONDUCTOR ECOSYSTEM"

S.KRISHNAN, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, outlines India's ambitious plan to build a resilient and globally competitive semiconductor industry through the India Semiconductor Mission

- Ruhail Amin

In light of recent global events that have highlighted the critical need for resilient technology supply chains, India is taking bold steps to secure its future. S. Krishnan, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, discusses India’s strategic initiatives in semiconductor production, digital innovation, and cybersecurity. Excerpts:

How have recent global events influenced India’s strategic thinking regarding semiconductor production?

India’s foray into semiconductor manufacturing is indeed timely and strategic. In recent years, we have witnessed significant disruptions to global supply chains, particularly due to the Ukraine war and the Covid-19 pandemic. These events exposed the vulnerabilities of over-reliance on a few key players in the semiconductor industry. The pandemic-induced chip shortage, which impacted various sectors, served as a wake-up call, underscoring the need for diversified and resilient supply chains. In response, nations worldwide began exploring strategies like near-shoring, homeshoring, and friendshoring to mitigate these risks. India, recognising both the strategic importance of semiconductors and this opportune moment, decided to proactively establish itself as a major player in this critical industry.

Can you provide an overview of the India Semiconductor Mission?