India’s eager to make a mark in the global semiconductor industry. This sector is critical as semiconductors power nearly all modern electronics. Today, countries like Taiwan dominate this space, producing 90% of the world’s advanced chips. These chips are essential not only for technology but also for national security, making semiconductor production a valuable goal for India.
India’s semiconductor market is expected to grow significantly, reaching USD 100.2 billion by 2032, according to Custom Market Insights. Although India has already passed the USD 27 billion mark, it’s still in the early stages of development. Shetal Mehta, founder of Suchi Semicon, believes India will enter the “ramping-up” phase by 2026-2027 and will be fully established by 2028 or 2029.
Closing the Skills Gap
One of India’s biggest challenges is the shortage of skilled professionals in semiconductor manufacturing. A recent report from TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship highlights a predicted shortage of 250,000 to 300,000 skilled workers by 2027. Recognizing this issue, Suchi Semicon is partnering with Gujarat Technological University and the Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology to create workforce training programs.
According to Mehta, there are currently no dedicated semiconductor courses in India. To address this, his company offers industry training courses that last between 14 days to three months, aiming to develop essential skills in semiconductor manufacturing.
Quality Standards and Infrastructure Challenges
India’s semiconductor industry also faces challenges in quality assurance and infrastructure. Producing high-quality chips requires a robust supply chain, top-notch facilities, and significant financial investment. Although Suchi Semicon has a strong quality team, Mehta believes the industry-wide quality standards need improvement. As more institutions introduce courses in semiconductor technology, the quality gap is expected to narrow.
To gain credibility in the industry, Suchi Semicon is focusing on a phased production plan. In the first phase, it will manufacture simpler devices to establish a reputation for quality. As trust builds, the company will gradually expand to produce more advanced semiconductor products.
The semiconductor industry relies on hazardous materials and large amounts of resources, raising environmental concerns. Suchi Semicon is committed to minimizing its environmental impact by adopting green practices. The company aims to reduce its electricity and water usage, addressing concerns related to sustainability.
Vision for Semiconductor Success
India’s Semiconductor Mission aims to make the country a global hub for semiconductor and electronics manufacturing. Overcoming the talent shortage and maintaining high-quality standards will be essential to achieving this goal. With strategic initiatives and focus on research and development, India is positioning itself to become a leader in semiconductor production.
