India's semiconductor revolution heralds growth of education and industry

By developing a strong semiconductor ecosystem, India is positioning itself as a key player in the global technology landscape. In addition to economic benefits, the industry’s growth will also contribute to national security

The rise of India's semiconductor industry marks a significant milestone in the country's technological and economic journey. For decades, the country has been striving to establish a presence in the semiconductor sector, and now those efforts are gradually bearing fruit. The decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been pivotal in driving this progress and creating an ecosystem conducive to the growth of semiconductor chip design, research and manufacturing.

Since 1962, various attempts have been made to set up a semiconductor industry in India, but it is only in recent years that substantial progress has been achieved. One of the critical factors contributing to this success is the increased collaboration between the Department of Electronics and private institutes and universities. This collaboration was partly necessitated by a decline in admissions to traditional electronics and communication programs, leading the All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to discontinue several degree and diploma courses in 2019-20.

As a result, many PhD holders in Electronics and Communication Engineering had to shift their focus to other branches for career sustainability. Amid these challenges, a groundbreaking initiative has emerged.

Prof. Prabhat Ranjan, Vice-chancellor of DY Patil International University (DYPIU), Akurdi, Pune, recently launched the country’s first full-time B. Tech program in Semiconductor Engineering. This program is a pioneering step that goes beyond conventional academic frameworks, providing students with access to state-of-the-art fabrication laboratories, research-oriented teaching, and strong industry collaborations. The comprehensive nature of this program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the semiconductor industry. By integrating practical experience with theoretical learning, the program aims to address the critical shortage of intellectual manpower in this field.

Furthermore, DYPIU's planned Technology Innovation Center (TIC) is set to play a crucial role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The TIC will offer a supportive platform for startups and MSME enterprises, helping them thrive in the competitive semiconductor market. This initiative is not only empowering students but also creating numerous employment and research opportunities in the growing field of semiconductors. According to a survey conducted by the staff at Randstad, there is currently a demand of up to 50,000 employees in the semiconductor sector. According to projections this demand will double to one lakh job opportunities by 2025. This significant rise underscores the urgent need for skilled professionals in semiconductor engineering and related disciplines. The burgeoning demand for semiconductor professionals highlights the importance of educational programs like the one at DYPIU.

These programs are essential for developing a talent pool capable of driving innovation and growth in the semiconductor industry. By providing students with hands-on experience and industry exposure, such initiatives ensure that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities in this rapidly evolving sector. India's efforts to build a robust semiconductor industry are beginning to show encouraging results. The strategic initiatives undertaken by educational institutions, coupled with supportive government policies, are creating a fertile ground for the semiconductor sector to flourish. The government's role in facilitating this progress cannot be overstated. Under Modi's leadership, there has been a concerted effort to promote technological advancements and create a favourable environment for semiconductor manufacturing. As the country moves towards becoming the fourth largest economy in the world, the semiconductor sector will play a crucial role in this transformation. By developing a strong semiconductor ecosystem, India is positioning itself as a key player in the global technology landscape. In addition to economic benefits, the industry’s growth will also contribute to national security. Semiconductors are critical components in a wide range of applications, including defence and communication systems. By developing domestic capabilities in semiconductor manufacturing, India can reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers and enhance its strategic autonomy. The journey towards building a semiconductor industry in India has been long and challenging, but the recent progress is a testament to the resilience and determination of the country's leaders and innovators. With continued support from the government, academia, and industry, India is well on its way to becoming a global hub for semiconductor research, design, and manufacturing.

India's efforts to establish a semiconductor industry are beginning to yield significant results. The launch of the B. Tech program in Semiconductor Engineering at DYPIU and the planned TIC are pivotal steps in this journey. These initiatives are not only empowering youth with new career opportunities but also positioning India as a major player in the global semiconductor market.

There is no denying that the semiconductor sector will play a crucial role in shaping India’s economic and technological future.

(The author is faculty of DY Patil International University, Akurdi, Pune)