India’s growing semiconductor ecosystem is attracting increasing attention from international companies as well as academic institutions. At SEMICON India 2026, participants highlighted the expansion of supply chains, indigenous chip development, stronger industry-academia partnerships and skilled workforce training as important areas for the sector’s growth.
Speaking to ANI at the event on Thursday, industry representatives and academics discussed efforts to expand semiconductor capabilities in India while creating greater opportunities for research, practical training and collaboration.
Academia Expands Focus on Chip Development
Professor Dr Manmadha Rao of Gayatri Vidya Parishad College of Engineering said the institution is working on silicon chip manufacturing through its Bharat Silicon Labs. The college is also developing a microcontroller as part of its semiconductor initiatives.
He said the project represents an opportunity for academia to contribute directly to chip development and gain practical knowledge through interaction with innovators, industry representatives and the wider semiconductor ecosystem.
According to Rao, greater engagement between educational institutions and the industry can help academics apply their knowledge while contributing to semiconductor development.
Global Companies Show Interest in Indian Market
International companies are also looking at opportunities in India as the country develops its semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.
Koichi Yamamura of Japan-based Inabata & Co. said the company is entering the Indian market for the first time. The company manufactures local scrubbers used in the semiconductor industry to help abate toxic greenhouse gases and explosive gases.
Yamamura said the company has high expectations from its entry into India and is looking to connect with customers and build opportunities in the domestic market.
Supply Chain and Skilled Workforce Remain Key Priorities
Hing Kee Neoh from Singapore-based IAQ Technology International emphasized the importance of developing a stronger semiconductor supply chain alongside skilled manpower.
He said India needs to move through its semiconductor transformation at a rapid pace to keep up with developments globally. He also expressed high expectations for the country’s transformation objectives.
The comments underline the importance of both infrastructure and trained professionals as India works to expand its semiconductor capabilities.
Industry-Academia Collaboration Gains Importance
J Bhaskar Rao of Gayatri Vidya Parishad College of Engineering highlighted the need to reduce the gap between academic education and industry expectations.
He said students often have limited opportunities to work on projects that closely match real-world industry requirements. To address this, the institution has established a laboratory where students can participate in industry-related projects and gain practical experience.
The college also plans to strengthen its engagement with industry stakeholders by inviting professionals to the laboratory, demonstrating students’ skills and creating opportunities for interaction.
According to Bhaskar Rao, such collaboration can provide students with greater exposure to industry requirements and support better career and placement opportunities.