Modi Opens SEMICON India 2026, Highlights Chip Industry Progress

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the fifth edition of SEMICON India 2026 at the Yashobhoomi convention centre in New Delhi on Thursday. The three-day event runs from September 17 to 19 under the theme "Silicon to Systems: Building the Ecosystem." It brings together over 600 exhibitors, roughly 300 international companies, and representatives from 52 countries.

Modi stated that India has entered the second phase of its semiconductor journey, citing the approval of 12 chip-making projects. He noted the India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 now carries an expanded outlay of USD 13.5 billion, up from USD 8 billion in the first phase. The government pledged a predictable policy environment and close industry collaboration.

“Be it policies, regulatory framework...whatever is needed for you (manufacturers) to succeed, government is taking all steps and efforts to ensure that.”

Major private investment commitments headlined the opening day. Applied Materials announced a $5 billion plan over the next decade for research, supplier development, and a proposed advanced research park. Lam Research outlined a ₹10,000 crore investment for a silicon-component facility and R&D, while Tata Electronics and Micron Technology provided updates on expanding local operations.

The conference coincides with Modi's 76th birthday. The Prime Minister chaired a roundtable with global CEOs on Wednesday, emphasizing skilling, innovation in AI and quantum computing, and infrastructure upgrades. He invited industry leaders to suggest policy measures to strengthen the sector further.

India aims to transition from a major consumer of electronics to a trusted node in the global semiconductor supply chain. Expanding manufacturing is central to Modi's vision of moving workers from farms into higher-paying jobs. The event features six country pavilions, 12 state pavilions, startup showcases, and a student hackathon.