Aiming to position India as a global leader in angstrom-scale semiconductors, Indian scientists propose ₹5 billion project to develop ultra-thin 2D chips, currently under MeitY’s review.
A group of Indian scientists has proposed a groundbreaking project to develop next-generation semiconductors using ultra-thin, two-dimensional materials. According to The Economic Times, the initiative aims to position India as a leader in the field by fabricating chips at the angstrom scale — nearly one-tenth the size of today’s smallest commercial chips.
The proposal, submitted by 30 scientists from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), outlines the development of 2D semiconductors based on materials like graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). These could potentially replace silicon and enable miniaturisation beyond current limits.
The team submitted its detailed project report (DPR) to the Principal Scientific Adviser in April 2022, with a revised version shared in October 2024 and later sent to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
Officials confirm that MeitY is actively evaluating the proposal. Meetings have taken place between the Principal Scientific Adviser and MeitY’s Secretary. The ministry is exploring practical applications for this emerging technology.
Currently, chip production is dominated by silicon technologies, with leading players in the US, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea. India is still reliant on foreign suppliers. Its largest semiconductor project, a joint venture between Tata Electronics and Taiwan’s PSMC, involves a ₹910 billion investment.
In contrast, the IISc-led plan seeks just ₹5 billion over five years. It includes a roadmap for achieving self-sufficiency after the initial phase.
Global interest in 2D materials is growing, with major investments from Europe, South Korea, and China. Experts warn that India must act quickly to seize the opportunity.
The project has been under discussion since 2021 and has received support from agencies like NITI Aayog, DRDO, and the Department of Space. Advocates stress that the time to transition from planning to action is now.
