New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday underscored India’s accelerating progress in advanced technology, stating that domestically manufactured semiconductor chips will strengthen the country’s position as a global technology leader.

The Prime Minister virtually performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the HCL-Foxconn joint venture project, India Chip Pvt Ltd, in Uttar Pradesh, marking a significant step in India’s semiconductor manufacturing ambitions.

Addressing the event via video conference, Modi drew a comparison between the geopolitical importance of oil in the 20th century and semiconductor chips in the 21st century. He said the global disruptions witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in chip supply chains, prompting India to prioritise self-reliance in the sector.

Emphasising the need for “Aatmanirbharta” in semiconductor production, the Prime Minister said India must reduce dependence on external sources for critical components used in modern electronics and industrial equipment.

Under the government’s Semiconductor Mission, India has approved 10 fabrication and packaging projects so far, he said, adding that four of these units are expected to begin production soon.

Referring to international collaborations, Modi highlighted the participation of major global firms such as Foxconn in India’s chip manufacturing ecosystem. He said partnerships of this nature demonstrate that India is viewed as a reliable and democratic partner in the global supply chain.

The Prime Minister added that wherever semiconductor manufacturing units are set up, they tend to spur the growth of design centres, startups and research-driven innovation ecosystems. He noted that Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a key hub in India’s semiconductor landscape.

Modi also referenced discussions at the recent India AI Impact Summit, stating that India is making substantial investments in technologies that will define the future, including artificial intelligence and advanced electronics manufacturing.

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The HCL-Foxconn facility is being seen as a major milestone in India’s push toward high-end electronics production and as part of a broader strategy to position the country as a trusted destination for semiconductor manufacturing.