Photo credit: ANI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday emphasised the importance of self-reliance in India’s technological future, stating that “Developed India will be built only when India is self-reliant. For this, Made in India chip is very important.”Addressing the virtual ceremony to lay the foundation stone of India Chip Pvt Ltd — a joint venture between the HCL Group and Foxconn — PM Modi noted that the global shortage of semiconductor chips during the Covid-19 pandemic had disrupted economies and halted production in factories worldwide. “Whatever India is doing in the field of technology in this decade, it will become foundation of our capability in the 21st century, the Prime Minister added.Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s growing semiconductor ambitions, noting that “India has so far approved 10 semiconductor fabrication and packaging projects under its Semiconductor Mission,” adding that “four of these units are set to commence production very soon.”The PM also welcomed the entry of major companies into India’s chip manufacturing sector, emphasising the need for self-reliance. He called for “atmanirbharta” in the process, underlining the goal of strengthening India’s leadership in the global market.”Today, the arrival of major companies like Foxconn in India and their collaboration in chip manufacturing also sends a global message. A democratic country like India is a trusted partner for the world. Therefore, India’s recognition as the world’s factory is a win-win situation for both India and other countries,” PM Modi said.The new Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly & Test (OSAT) facility will be located in the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) area at Jewar, Greater Noida. The 60:40 joint venture between HCL Group and Foxconn represents an investment of Rs 3,700 crore, with operations expected to commence by 2028. The plant will manufacture display driver chips, supporting India’s growing domestic demand for semiconductor components.According to PTI, the project is expected to generate more than 3,500 direct and indirect jobs, foster local supply chains, and attract partners across the semiconductor ecosystem. The facility is designed to process up to 20,000 wafers per month, strengthening a resilient and self-reliant chip supply chain in India.“In the last 11 years, the Prime Minister has established India as powerhouse of electronics manufacturing. India is now ranked third among nations that export electronics. In a month, 3.6 crore chips will be produced from this plant. The brain of the digital screens that you see will now be made in Jewar,” said Union electronics and IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath described Jewar as a “jewel not only for UP but also for the country,” adding that the state’s development will be aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision for chip manufacturing.Bob Chen, President of Foxconn’s Semiconductor Business Group, was quoted by news agency PTI as saying, “Today we are ground breaking for India chip. We want to establish reliable semiconductor assembly and testing facility in India. We look forward to growing together and contributing to India’s growth in global technology landscape.”HCL Group Chairperson Roshini Nadar highlighted that the facility will serve both domestic and international markets, positioning India as a significant player in the global semiconductor sector.
