Semicon 2.0 Web Application Portal and ECMS Approvals

Semicon 2.0 Web Application Portal and ECMS Approvals

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Key takeaways

  • The Union Government introduced the Semicon 2.0 Web Application Portal backed by a financial outlay of Rs 1,27,500 crore under the India Semiconductor Mission 2.0.
  • Phase 1 of the semiconductor initiative attracted over Rs 1.64 lakh crore in total investments across 12 major projects in six states.
  • The Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme trained 70,000 engineering students and provided electronic design tools to 332 academic institutions and 105 startups.
  • The government expanded the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) to 118 approved projects across 16 states, reserving nearly 50% of units for the MSME sector.

Why in News

  • The Union Government launched the Semicon 2.0 Web Application Portal to support Pillars 2, 3, and 4 of the India Semiconductor Mission 2.0.
  • The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology also cleared 12 new domestic manufacturing projects through the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS).

Overview of Semicon 2.0

  • The Union Cabinet approved Semicon 2.0 under the India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 with a total financial budget of Rs 1,27,500 crore.
  • This expanded initiative builds a complete chip ecosystem using six main pillars, including chip design, machinery, factory setups, assembly testing, research, and talent training.
  • Businesses can now submit applications online for Pillar 2 focusing on machines and materials, Pillar 3 targeting chip manufacturing fabs, and Pillar 4 supporting assembly and testing units.

Achievements of Semicon 1.0 and C2S Programme

  • The first phase of the semiconductor initiative backed 12 major projects across six states, pulling in over Rs 1.64 lakh crore in total investment.
  • The Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme trained 70,000 students in specialized skills to create a job-ready talent pool for the industry.
  • This specialized training initiative supplied modern electronic design software tools to 332 academic institutions and 105 startups nationwide.

Expansion and Key Focus of ECMS

  • The new batch of 12 project clearances brings the total approved ECMS projects to 118 operating across 16 states.
  • The government emphasized small business participation by approving nearly 50% of these projects for companies in the MSME sector.
  • The latest project approvals aim to lower import reliance by producing specialized components locally, including multi-layer printed circuit boards, relays, heat sinks, and specialty ceramics.
  • These approved projects cover essential supply chain raw materials like copper foil for batteries, battery node materials, special films, and camera rims.
  • The initiative funds domestic production of high-tech capital machinery, including precision moulds, power control systems, and automated factory equipment.

Strategic Objectives

  • India aims to shift its electronics industry from simple downstream assembly to producing high-value internal components locally.
  • The government plans to attract at least three major international equipment makers and five global chemical or gas suppliers to strengthen the local supply ecosystem.
  • These strategic policy moves directly support the self-reliant manufacturing goals outlined under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission.