Micron, Gujarat govt ink deal to set up semiconductor plant

Introduction

Micron Technology Inc, a US-based semiconductor manufacturer, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gujarat government to set up a state-of-the-art semiconductor unit in Sanand, near Ahmedabad. The project, valued at Rs 22,500 crore, marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in memory chip manufacturing. The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Micron Technology’s senior vice-president, Gursharan Singh.

Second MoU with a Semiconductor Manufacturer

This collaboration between Micron Technology and the Gujarat government is the second MoU signed by the state with a semiconductor manufacturer. In September 2022, a similar MoU was inked with the Foxconn-Vedanta joint venture for a Rs 1.54-lakh crore unit in Gujarat. While the project at Dholera SIR awaits formal approval from the Central government, the signing of the MoU with Micron Technology demonstrates Gujarat’s commitment to attracting semiconductor investments

Importance of Semiconductor Industry

Significance of semiconductors has evolved over the years. India’s reliance on semiconductor imports, amounts to Rs 3 lakh crore. Notably, around Rs 1 lakh crore worth of memory cards are imported, and Micron Technology is one of the leading manufacturers of these cards. Establishing a semiconductor unit with Micron Technology’s involvement is a significant stride towards India’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in memory chip production.

Path to Semiconductor Manufacturing Hub

The Union Minister expressed confidence in India’s potential to become a global semiconductor manufacturing hub, citing factors such as talent, green energy, and low-cost manufacturing capabilities. The project’s approval included the provision of land allotment and project approval letters to Micron Technology, further solidifying their commitment to the initiative.

Implications for Skill Development and Collaboration

Gursharan Singh, senior vice-president at Micron Technology, underlined the positive impact of the project, stating that the integrated circuit assembly and test manufacturing facility at Sanand would establish India as a prominent semiconductor manufacturer worldwide. Additionally, Micron Technology plans to collaborate with academia to offer learning opportunities for young professionals and develop a sustainable ecosystem in India. The project’s success is expected to attract vendors and suppliers to the state, further bolstering the semiconductor industry’s growth.

Imortant takeaways for competitive examination

• Micron Technology, Inc. is an American producer of computer memory and computer data storage headquartered in Boise, Idaho.
• CEO of  Micron Technology is  Sanjay Mehrotra

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