India has reached a landmark in its semiconductor journey with the introduction of the country’s first fully indigenous 32-bit microprocessor, called ‘Vikram.’ ISRO’s Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) created the processor, which was formally presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Union Minister for Electronics and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw at the beginning of the ‘Semicon India 2025’ event.

The Vikram chip has been specifically built to withstand the severe conditions of space launch vehicles, increasing India’s space capabilities while also reducing dependency on foreign-made chips. The launch reflects India’s determination to become a self-sufficient semiconductor hub.

Speaking at the event, Vaishnaw emphasised the remarkable progress made since the launch of the India Semiconductor Mission three and a half years ago. He stated that five semiconductor fabrication units are now under construction and emphasised global confidence in India’s developing semiconductor sector.

The government has already approved ten projects, including high-volume fabs, compound semiconductors, 3D heterogeneous packaging, and outsourced assembly and testing. Design-focused schemes have supported over 280 academic institutions and 72 start-ups with advanced tools, while 23 start-ups have been selected under the Design Linked Incentive programme.

Semicon India 2025 is expected to boost India’s semiconductor value chain role with IBM, Micron, SK Hynix, Applied Materials, and Tata Electronics.