PM Modi to Inaugurate SEMICON India 2026 in Delhi

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the fifth edition of SEMICON India 2026 on September 17, 2026, at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi. The three-day event will be held from September 17 to 19 and will focus on strengthening India’s semiconductor and electronics ecosystem.

The event will bring together Indian and global companies to discuss investments, technology partnerships, manufacturing and supply-chain opportunities.

About SEMICON India 2026

• SEMICON India 2026 is being jointly organised by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), and SEMI, a global industry organisation.
• The theme of the event is “Silicon to Systems: Building the Ecosystem.”
• The event will showcase the complete semiconductor value chain, covering semiconductor materials, manufacturing, advanced packaging, chip design, electronics and systems.

Important points 

The event will feature:

• More than 600 exhibitors, including around 300 international companies.
• More than 150 speakers from India and abroad.
• Exhibition space covering around 15,000 square metres.
• Six country pavilions and 12 state government pavilions.
• Dedicated areas for startups, student hackathons and workforce development.
• A special “Sand to Silicon to Systems” Value Chain Experience.

This experience will help visitors understand the different stages of the semiconductor ecosystem and India’s growing capabilities across the value chain.

India’s Progress in the Semiconductor Sector

• Under the Semicon India Programme, the Union Government has approved 12 semiconductor projects.
• Three semiconductor units approved under Semicon 1.0 have already started commercial production.
• The Union Cabinet has also approved Semicon 2.0, the next phase of the programme, which is based on six key pillars for further developing India’s semiconductor ecosystem.

Support for Semiconductor Startups and Innovation

• The government has expanded access to Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools to more than 400 academic institutions and 105 startups.
• So far, 24 startups have received approval under the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme.
• The Startup Pavilion at SEMICON India 2026 will showcase around 40 startups working in the semiconductor and microelectronics sectors.

Focus on Workforce Development

• The event will also focus on developing skilled talent for India’s growing semiconductor industry.
• The Workforce Development Pavilion will provide opportunities to learn about skills, careers and employment prospects in the microelectronics sector.
• Developing a skilled workforce is important for supporting semiconductor manufacturing, chip design and other advanced technology activities in India.

Major Companies to Participate

• Several leading global and Indian companies are expected to participate in the event.
• These include ASML, Applied Materials, Teradyne, Infineon, Ebara, Jabil, IBM Research, NXP, Tata Electronics, Micron, Merck KGaA, Rapidus, Lam Research, CG Power, Uno Minda, Advantest and Tokyo Electron, among others.

Significance for India

SEMICON India 2026 will provide an important platform for Indian and international companies to explore:

• Investment opportunities
• Technology partnerships
• Manufacturing collaborations
• Supply-chain linkages
• Semiconductor research and innovation

The event can help strengthen India’s position as a trusted global semiconductor partner.

A stronger semiconductor ecosystem can also support electronics manufacturing, technological innovation, employment generation and India’s goal of greater self-reliance in critical technologies.

Challenges 

• High Capital Investment: Semiconductor fabrication plants require very large investments and advanced infrastructure. 
• Technological Complexity: Chip manufacturing involves highly advanced technologies, precision equipment and specialised processes. 
• Skilled Workforce: India needs more highly trained professionals in semiconductor design, fabrication, packaging and testing. 
• Global Supply Chain Dependence: India remains dependent on other countries for several critical materials, equipment and technologies. 
• Water and Power Requirements: Semiconductor manufacturing requires a stable supply of high-quality water and uninterrupted electricity. 
• Strong Global Competition: India faces competition from established semiconductor hubs such as Taiwan, South Korea, the United States and China. 
• Research and Development: Greater investment in domestic R&D and innovation is needed to develop advanced semiconductor technologies.
  

Way Forward

• Strengthen R&D: Increase investment in semiconductor research, chip design and advanced manufacturing technologies. 
• Develop Skilled Workforce: Expand specialised education and training programmes in semiconductor design, fabrication, packaging and testing. 
• Promote Industry-Academia Collaboration: Encourage partnerships between universities, research institutions and semiconductor companies. 
• Build Resilient Supply Chains: Diversify sources of critical minerals, materials, equipment and technologies. 
• Attract Global Investment: Continue providing a stable policy environment and incentives to attract leading global semiconductor companies. 
• Support Domestic Startups: Expand funding and incentives for semiconductor design and deep-tech startups. 
• Improve Infrastructure: Ensure reliable electricity, high-quality water, logistics and other infrastructure required for semiconductor manufacturing. 
• Focus on the Full Value Chain: Move beyond chip fabrication by developing capabilities in design, packaging, testing, equipment and electronics manufacturing.

Conclusion

SEMICON India 2026 highlights India’s growing ambitions in the global semiconductor industry. With government support, new manufacturing projects, startups, skilled workforce initiatives and participation from major global companies, India is working to build a strong and integrated semiconductor ecosystem.

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