Will Semiconductors Fulfill the Role of the ‘Charkha’ for India?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia draws parallels between semiconductors and the charkha, highlighting India's path to self-sufficiency during the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025. Discover how India is leading a digital revolution and setting global benchmarks in technology.
Key Takeaways
- Semiconductors symbolize India's journey towards self-reliance.
- India is hosting the Startup World Cup with 500 competing companies.
- The PLI scheme has led to significant growth in semiconductor production.
- 5G connectivity is now nearly universal in India.
- India is on the forefront of global digital transformation.
New Delhi, Oct 8 (NationPress) Union Minister for Communications and Development of the North-East Region, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, remarked on Wednesday that semiconductors are akin to the ‘charkha’, symbolizing India’s trajectory towards modern self-reliance. Speaking at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025, Scindia stated that semiconductors embody the same ethos of Swadeshi and self-sufficiency that the charkha represented during India’s freedom movement.
“India is set to host a Startup World Cup featuring 500 companies competing for funding. The nation is witnessing a DSS revolution: Designing in India, Solving for India, and Scaling from India,” Scindia elaborated.
He emphasized the swift advancements in India’s digital and telecom sectors, noting that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, the country is experiencing a new technological revolution driven by the 4D system -- Democracy, Demography, Digital-first approach, and Delivery.
“Today, India's telecom evolution is founded on the 4Ds: democracy, demography, digital-first approach, and delivery,” Scindia affirmed.
He mentioned that through the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, semiconductor manufacturing in India has already achieved a remarkable Rs 91,000 crore, marking a significant milestone in the government’s commitment to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.
“India’s aspirations go beyond 5G, with the Bharat 6G Alliance anticipated to contribute 10% of global patents,” the Union Minister stated.
Scindia further highlighted that India’s telecom and digital advancements are setting a benchmark globally, with 5G connectivity now covering 99.9% of the nation’s districts and data prices among the lowest worldwide at merely Rs 9.11 per GB.
“Currently, India boasts 1.2 billion mobile subscribers, which accounts for 20% of the global mobile population. The country has surged from 60 million broadband users to 944 million internet subscribers,” Scindia noted.
At IMC 2025, the minister reiterated that India is not merely adopting technology but is at the forefront of global digital transformation, propelled by innovation, affordability, and inclusivity.
Point of View
It's evident that India's focus on semiconductors represents a significant leap towards self-reliance. The government's initiatives, particularly under the PLI scheme, are not merely for economic growth but also for establishing India as a leader in global technology. This approach aligns with national interests and reflects a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and digital empowerment.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of semiconductors in India's economy?
Semiconductors play a crucial role in enhancing India's self-reliance and technological advancement, marking a pivotal shift in the country's economic landscape.
How does the PLI scheme impact semiconductor production?
The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has significantly boosted semiconductor production in India, reaching Rs 91,000 crore, promoting local manufacturing and innovation.
What is the 4D system mentioned by Scindia?
The 4D system refers to Democracy, Demography, Digital-first approach, and Delivery, which form the foundation of India's telecom and digital revolution.
