Semicon India 2025: PM Modi Unveils ‘Vikram’, India’s First Indigenous Chip, Signaling Leap Towards Global Semiconductor Hub

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a monumental stride in India’s technological journey today by unveiling the nation’s first fully indigenous semiconductor chip, the ‘Vikram 32-bit processor’, at the prestigious Semicon India 2025 conference. This landmark event, held in New Delhi, signifies a pivotal moment in India’s ambitious drive for self-reliance in the critical semiconductor sector, projecting the country as a future global hub for chip design and manufacturing.

‘Vikram’ Processor: A Symbol of India’s Technological Prowess

The ‘Vikram 32-bit processor’, officially designated VIKRAM3201, has been developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Semiconductor Laboratory, based in Chandigarh. This sophisticated chip, designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, is slated for applications across defense systems, aerospace technologies, advanced automotive solutions, and high-reliability energy systems. The presentation of this chip to Prime Minister Modi by Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, underscored the rapid progress achieved under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM).

India’s Semiconductor Mission: From Vision to Reality

Launched in 2021, the India Semiconductor Mission has catalyzed a transformation in the nation’s approach to chip manufacturing. The government’s commitment is evident in the ₹76,000 crore Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, of which nearly ₹65,000 crore has already been committed across ten strategic semiconductor projects. These initiatives are fostering a comprehensive ecosystem, encompassing fabrication, assembly, testing, and design.

Speaking at the conference, Prime Minister Modi declared that India’s semiconductor journey, though starting late, is now unstoppable. He likened semiconductors to the “digital diamonds” of the 21st century, essential drivers of global innovation and economic growth, contrasting their importance with oil’s role in the past century. “The day is not far away when India’s smallest chip will drive the world’s biggest change,” Modi stated, emphasizing India’s growing trust and capability on the global stage.

Accelerating Manufacturing and Design Capabilities

Semicon India 2025 showcased the tangible progress on the ground. Minister Vaishnaw highlighted that five semiconductor units are currently under rapid construction, with one pilot line already complete. Test chips from leading companies like Micron Technology and Tata Electronics are in production, and commercial chip manufacturing is slated to commence by the end of 2025. Furthermore, advanced 3-nanometer chip design facilities were inaugurated in Noida and Bengaluru in May 2025, positioning India among the few nations capable of working at the most advanced technology nodes.

The Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme has been instrumental, sanctioning 23 chip design projects to support startups and established companies in developing indigenous solutions. This focus on design, coupled with manufacturing investments exceeding ₹1.6 lakh crore approved across various states, illustrates India’s integrated approach.

A Global Hub in the Making

India’s semiconductor market is experiencing robust growth, projected to expand from US$38 billion in 2023 to US$45-50 billion in 2024-25, with an ambitious target of US$100-110 billion by 2030. The country’s appeal to global investors is bolstered by its significant talent pool, with approximately 20% of the world’s semiconductor design talent based in India, and a stable, transparent policy framework. Industry leaders from global giants like Lam Research, ASML, and Merck have expressed confidence in India’s potential, with many announcing substantial investments and collaborations.

Semicon India 2025, featuring over 350 exhibiting companies from 33 countries, serves as a testament to India’s burgeoning role in the global semiconductor supply chain. The event has solidified the narrative that India is no longer just a consumer but a significant creator in this foundational industry. This news serves as a crucial update for anyone tracking India’s technological advancement and its emergence as a key player in the global economy.