Athira Sethu
Kochi, 3 September 2025
India has made a significant stride in the direction of semiconductor independence. At Semicon India 2025, Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw introduced the nation’s first 32-bit fully indigenous processor chip, known as Vikram, to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Vikram chip was designed by the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL). It is the indigenous Indian microprocessor that can withstand the harsh conditions of space launch vehicles. The chip has already been tested successfully in space during the PSLV-C60 mission.
India’s Progress in Chipmaking
India used to be a consumer of semiconductors only until a few years back. This changed after the India Semiconductor Mission was announced in 2021. India has advanced from being import-dependent to designing and manufacturing sophisticated chips in just three and a half years. Stable government policies, research investments, and an expanding economy have facilitated this fast development.
The Vikram chip was designed, manufactured, and packaged at SCL’s Mohali facility in the state of Punjab. This qualifies as an authentic indigenous product.
Features of the Vikram Chip
The Vikram-32 is built on a 32-bit technology, so it can process huge amounts of data simultaneously. It is also capable of handling decimal numbers and intricate instructions that are required in launching satellites and controlling space missions. Most importantly, it can function in extreme temperatures, either very low or very high, without failing.
Due to its dependability, the chip also has potential applications outside space. It can be used in defence, aerospace, automobile, and energy industries, which require high-performance and secure processors.
A Symbolic Milestone
Along with unveiling the chip, Minister Vaishnaw also gave details on India’s semiconductor development. Work on five semiconductor units is already in progress, and ten large projects valued at more than Rs 1.60 lakh crore have been sanctioned across six states. Over 23 startups are being assisted under the Design Linked Incentive scheme, reflecting that India is emerging as a robust contender in the global chip design chain.
Introduction of the Vikram chip to the Prime Minister was both a technological milestone and symbolic. It demonstrated that India is capable of standing by itself in a technology, security, and economic growth important sector.
Semicon India 2025 conference is ongoing for three days with emphasis on the creation of a strong and sustainable semiconductor ecosystem for the future of the country.
