The newly launched centres are the first in India to focus on designing cutting-edge 3-nanometer (nm) chips, a significant advancement from previous achievements at the 7nm and 5nm levels. Minister Vaishnaw highlighted the breakthrough, stating, “Designing at 3nm is truly next-generation. We’ve done 7nm and 5nm earlier, but this marks a new frontier”.
The 3nm chip design capability places India in an elite group of nations with such advanced technological expertise. These state-of-the-art facilities are expected to accelerate India’s semiconductor design ecosystem, attract further investments, and boost the country’s standing in the global chip industry.
The inauguration of these centres is part of India’s holistic semiconductor strategy, which spans the entire value chain-from design and fabrication to Assembly, Testing, Marking, and Packaging (ATMP), as well as critical inputs like equipment, chemicals, and gases. Minister Vaishnaw emphasized that this integrated approach is essential for building a robust, self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem capable of supporting both domestic and international demand.
Global investor confidence in India’s semiconductor ambitions has been evident at major forums like Davos, and significant investments are already being made by industry leaders such as Applied Materials and Lam Research.
To further strengthen the foundation of India’s semiconductor ecosystem, the government has announced the rollout of a semiconductor learning kit for engineering students. More than 270 academic institutions that have already received Electronic Design Automation (EDA) software tools via the India Semiconductor Mission will now also benefit from these practical learning kits, helping to create industry-ready talent for the expanding sector.
The new design centres are expected to collaborate closely with academic and research institutions, fostering innovation and ensuring India’s workforce is equipped with the skills needed for future semiconductor advancements.
The move to 3nm chip design represents a significant technological leap, enabling the development of more powerful, energy-efficient, and compact electronic devices. These centres support India’s ambitions to become a global manufacturing hub for advanced electronics, reducing reliance on imports and enhancing economic resilience. By covering the entire semiconductor value chain, India is laying the groundwork for a sustainable and competitive industry, attracting both domestic and foreign investment.