India has capability to become trusted partner in diversified semiconductor supply chain: PM

Modi's Vision for India in the Semiconductor Supply Chain

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that India possesses the capability to become a trusted partner in a diversified semiconductor supply chain, a statement made during a high-level roundtable with global semiconductor executives at his residence. He stressed that the convergence of democracy and technology can drive human welfare, positioning India as a responsible actor in the global tech landscape. Modi underscored that semiconductors form the foundation of the digital age and will soon underpin even basic necessities, making the sector critical for future development.

The Prime Minister outlined a comprehensive approach centred on developing social, digital, and physical infrastructure, promoting inclusive growth, reducing regulatory burdens, and attracting investment in manufacturing and innovation. He reiterated the government's commitment to the 'Make in India, Make for the World' initiative, promising sustained support for the semiconductor industry at every stage of its growth. Crucially, Modi assured industry leaders of a predictable and stable policy regime, a factor often cited as essential for long-term industrial planning and foreign direct investment.

Modi also highlighted India's vast talent pool and the government's focus on skilling initiatives to ensure a workforce capable of meeting industry demands. By emphasising the development of globally competitive products, he signalled India's ambition not just to participate in the semiconductor value chain but to move up it through innovation and quality. The message was clear: India aims to be more than a manufacturing base—it seeks to be a hub for design, engineering, and technological advancement.

Industry Leaders Respond to India's Semiconductor Push

The semiconductor executives present at the roundtable responded positively to Modi's vision, noting the unprecedented nature of bringing such a concentrated group of global leaders together under one roof. They acknowledged the immense growth potential of the sector and observed a discernible shift in the industry's centre of gravity towards India. Many cited the country's improving ecosystem, including policy stability and infrastructure development, as reasons for their optimism.

Ajit Manocha, CEO of SEMI, praised Modi's leadership as exceptional and inspirational, not just for India but for the world. Kurt Sievers of NXP remarked that he had yet to encounter a political leader with such a deep and sustained interest in the semiconductor industry. Bob Pragada of Jacobs echoed this sentiment, stating that Modi's efforts to elevate India's global standing in technology are needed beyond national borders. Luc Van Den Hove of IMEC expressed strong admiration for the Prime Minister's dedication, describing it as a clear commitment to making India a powerhouse in semiconductor technology.

Vellayan Subbiah, Chairman of CG Power, described the current moment as exciting for the industry, emphasising that the collaboration between government and industry has reached unprecedented levels. He characterised the initiative as just the beginning of a longer journey. Academic voices, including Prof Arogyaswami Paulraj from Stanford University, affirmed that India has taken a significant leap forward, crediting Modi's vision and drive for the progress achieved. Anirudh Devgan of Cadence noted the tangible momentum built over recent years, highlighting year-on-year improvements and the essential role of semiconductors across all digital industries.

Opportunities and Challenges in India's Semiconductor Journey

The roundtable discussions revealed a shared belief among industry leaders that what benefits India will ultimately benefit the global semiconductor ecosystem. Executives pointed to India's potential to become a global powerhouse in raw materials essential for semiconductor production, a strategic advantage given the sector's dependence on specialised inputs. They also highlighted the country's stability amid complex geopolitical tensions, positioning it as a reliable partner in an era of supply chain diversification.

However, challenges remain. While India has made strides in attracting interest and setting up policy frameworks, translating commitments into operational fabrication plants and advanced research centres requires sustained effort, significant capital investment, and the development of deep technical expertise. The global semiconductor industry is notoriously capital-intensive and technologically demanding, with long lead times from planning to production. India's success will depend on maintaining policy continuity, delivering on infrastructure promises, and fostering innovation ecosystems that can compete with established players in Taiwan, South Korea, the United States, and Europe.

Nonetheless, the enthusiasm expressed by global CEOs and academics suggests a growing consensus that India is becoming a credible contender in the semiconductor arena. The focus on skilling, combined with incentives for manufacturing and innovation, could yield dividends over the medium to long term. As digital transformation accelerates worldwide, the demand for semiconductors is expected to rise, creating opportunities for new entrants and diversified supply chains—spaces where India aims to establish a meaningful and trusted presence.

What this means

India's semiconductor ambitions, as articulated by Prime Minister Modi, reflect a strategic effort to integrate the country into the forefront of global technology supply chains. By combining democratic governance with technological ambition, and backing vision with policy stability and investment in human capital, India is seeking to move beyond being a passive participant to an active contributor in semiconductor innovation and manufacturing. The endorsement from global industry leaders and academic experts lends credibility to this aspiration, though turning it into tangible outcomes will depend on consistent execution. For businesses, investors, and policymakers, the signal is clear: India is actively courting partnerships in one of the most critical sectors of the 21st-century economy, offering a mix of market potential, improving infrastructure, and a commitment to inclusive, technology-driven growth.