The government is planning to invest Rs 20,000 crore in the modernization of the Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL) fab plant. This initiative aims to revive India’s original semiconductor manufacturing unit and upgrade it from the 180 nanometer (nm) technology factory to 28 nm. The modernization plan involves expanding the existing production facility, replacing outdated equipment, securing a technology partner for 28nm factories, and locally sourcing crucial raw materials to reduce import costs and enhance customer returns.
The government is seeking companies interested in installing, operating, and eventually transferring the factory to SCL, with clear specifications regarding their technology partners. This modernization effort is anticipated to enable SCL to meet the demands of critical sectors such as defense and automotive, while also supporting industrial research and development requirements.
What is the purpose of modernizing the SCL fab plant?
The purpose of modernizing the SCL fab plant is to upgrade it from the current 180 nanometer (nm) technology factory to 28 nm, as part of the government’s initiative to revive India’s original semiconductor manufacturing unit. This modernization plan aims to produce semiconductors for a wide range of devices including smartphones, laptops, TV screens, weapon systems, and automobiles. The modernization process involves expanding the production facility, replacing obsolete equipment, seeking a technology partner for 28nm factories, and locally sourcing raw materials to reduce import costs and improve customer returns.
Moreover, this modernization effort is crucial for meeting the demands of strategic sectors, the automotive industry, and supporting industrial research and development needs.