Vaishnaw: ISM 2.0 to focus on chip design, partners and talent, Pg13

Key Highlights:

• India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0 will prioritize indigenous chip design, attracting ecosystem partners, and talent development, according to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
• The government aims to establish semiconductor manufacturing plants capable of producing chips as small as 2 nanometer node size.
• The Centre has allocated Rs 1,000 crore for ISM 2.0 in FY 2026-27, emphasizing industry-led research and training centers.
• Budget 2026-27 includes the announcement of the second edition of ISM.

Detailed Insights:

• ISM 2.0 will focus on design companies and startups to encourage the development of innovative chip designs and their market introduction.
• The initiative aims to replicate the success of companies like Qualcomm by fostering deep tech innovation within Indian startups.
• The government's strategy involves attracting the entire semiconductor ecosystem to India to support the mission's goals.
• Emphasis will be placed on creating a future-ready skilled workforce through industry-led research and training centers.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Semiconductor: A material with electrical conductivity between a conductor and an insulator, used in electronic devices.
• Chip Design: The process of creating the layout and functionality of integrated circuits or chips.
• Ecosystem: An interconnected network of entities (companies, institutions, individuals) that contribute to a particular industry or sector.