11 March 2024 – India is set to elevate its semiconductor capabilities by delving into the production of chip-making equipment, marking a significant stride in the country’s technological self-reliance. Ashwini Vaishnaw, the IT Minister, unveiled this strategic move during the inauguration of Applied Material’s India Validation Centre in Bengaluru.
About the Development:
Applied Materials, investing $20 million in the centre, signifies India’s broader semiconductor ecosystem development. The nation is aiming to manufacture all essentials for semiconductor production, including fabs, chemicals, and now, chip-making equipment.
With a $400 million investment over four years, Applied Materials is establishing an engineering centre in Bengaluru, reinforcing India’s semiconductor technology prowess. The move aligns with agreements forged during the Prime Minister’s US visit, showcasing tangible results like Micron’s ATMP construction and LAM Research’s Semiverse Solutions.
Sonny Kunnakkat, MD of Applied Materials’ Advanced Manufacturing Technology, highlighted the centre’s capability to process 300 mm wafers, a leap from the existing 200 mm capacity. While acknowledging the nascent stage of India’s semiconductor hardware ecosystem, Kunnakkat emphasized the need for a comprehensive support system, underlining collaboration as crucial for scaling up operations.
Conclusion:
India’s foray into chip-making equipment production symbolizes a significant stride towards technological self-sufficiency. The investments and collaborations with global players position the nation to play a more pivotal role in the semiconductor industry, addressing evolving customer needs and fostering long-term sustainability. This marks a transformative chapter in India’s semiconductor journey, underscoring its commitment to shaping the future of technology on a global scale.
