The semiconductor industry in India is witnessing a significant boost as Simmtech, a South Korean firm, announced its plans to set up a manufacturing plant in Sanand, Gujarat. With an investment of Rs 1,250 crore, Simmtech aims to contribute to the creation of a robust semiconductor ecosystem in the state. This development was disclosed by Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnav, during the ongoing Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in Gandhinagar.
Simmtech’s Investment and Plant Setup
Simmtech, recognized as the world’s largest manufacturer of semiconductor substrates, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gujarat government for the establishment of its plant. The company will be situated in close proximity to Micron’s existing facility in Sanand. Vaishnav revealed that Simmtech has been allocated 30 acres of land, and the construction work is scheduled to commence in the next two to three months. The entire setup process is expected to take 6-7 months.
Semiconductor Substrate Manufacturing
The core focus of Simmtech’s operations revolves around the production of semiconductor substrates. These substrates serve as the foundational material upon which various elements of a semiconductor device are fabricated. Being the world’s leading manufacturer in this domain, Simmtech’s entry into Gujarat marks a significant stride in expanding the semiconductor manufacturing capabilities within the region.
Government Support and Subsidies
The announcement made by Minister Vaishnav emphasized the support extended by both the central and state governments. Simmtech has been granted subsidies under the Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS). This initiative is aimed at promoting and incentivizing the manufacturing of electronic components, including semiconductors, within the country.
Gujarat’s Ambition for “Make in India” Chip
During a seminar on “Semiconductor & Electronics” held on the second day of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, Minister Vaishnav unveiled the ambitious plan for Gujarat to manufacture India’s first indigenous semiconductor chip by 2024. This announcement underscores the state’s commitment to fostering innovation and self-reliance in the semiconductor sector, aligning with the broader “Make in India” initiative.
Important Questions Related to Exams
1. Where is Simmtech’s new plant located in Gujarat?
a) Vadodara
b) Gandhinagar
c) Sanand
2. Which other global semiconductor company operates in Sanand, Gujarat, alongside Simmtech?
a) Micron
b) AMD
c) Intel
3. What significant milestone does Gujarat aim to achieve in the semiconductor sector by 2024?
a) Hosting a global summit
b) Manufacturing its first semiconductor chip
c) Exporting semiconductor substrates
Check your knowledge and try to answer the questions in the comment section.