India’s Growing Need for Semiconductor Talent: A Promising Future Ahead
India’s electronics and semiconductor industries are on the cusp of a major boom, with the demand for skilled professionals expected to surge in the coming years. According to a recent report by the Semicon India Future Skills Talent Committee, the country will require a staggering 12 lakh skilled manpower in semiconductor-related industries by 2032. This revelation highlights the critical role India is set to play in the global semiconductor landscape.
A Collaborative Effort for Talent Development
In a bid to position India as a Semiconductor Talent Nation, the government constituted the Semicon India Future Skills Talent Committee, bringing together representatives from the semiconductor industry, academia, and government. This collaborative effort aimed to develop a comprehensive roadmap for nurturing and developing the required talent pool.
Diverse Skill Sets in High Demand
The report outlines the varied segments within the semiconductor industry that will witness a surge in talent demand. To meet future requirements, the semiconductor chip design sector will need an additional 2,75,000 skilled professionals, while semiconductor fabrication and ATMP facilities will require 25,000 and 29,000 manpower, respectively. The scope of talent needed spans across disciplines like VLSI Design and Technology, Material Science, Applied Physics, Chemical Science, Process, and Industrial Engineering, emphasizing the diverse skill sets that will be in high demand.
An Ecosystem Approach for Talent Development
To address the increasing demand for semiconductor talent, the Indian government has taken an ecosystem approach. It has initiated several skilling and academic initiatives to groom young Indians for rewarding careers in the electronics and semiconductor sector. Recognizing the importance of global standard talent development, these efforts focus on ensuring the country produces highly skilled professionals to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Empowering Education with a Focus on Industry Needs
The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has been actively involved in formulating curricula for undergraduate, diploma, and minor degrees in the semiconductor domain. By aligning education with the industry’s requirements, the AICTE aims to equip aspiring professionals with the right skills and knowledge, thus bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application.
The Semicon India Future Skills/Chip to Startup (C2S) Program
One of the ambitious initiatives undertaken by the government is the Semicon India Future Skills/Chip to Startup (C2S) program. This program aims to create a remarkable 85,000 highly qualified global talents within a span of 5 years. By fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, this program not only addresses talent demands but also catalyzes the growth of startups and enterprises in the semiconductor sector.
Strategic Collaborations for R&D and Workforce Training
To further enhance India’s semiconductor capabilities, strategic collaborations with renowned international institutions and industry players have been established. Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed between the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and institutions like Purdue University and the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. Additionally, collaborations with US-based semiconductor equipment manufacturer Lam Research aim to drive joint research and development programs and workforce training, ensuring India’s talent remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
A Promising Future for India’s Semiconductor Industry
As India positions itself as a global leader in the electronics and semiconductor market, the surge in demand for skilled talent serves as a clear indicator of the nation’s promising future. With the government’s proactive measures and the industry’s appetite for highly qualified professionals, India is on track to become a frontrunner in the semiconductor domain. This growth trajectory promises to foster technological innovation, fuel economic growth, and strengthen India’s position in the global semiconductor landscape.
