How was 2024 for the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology? With “key initiatives” in semiconductors, AI, robotics, and policy, MeitY looks forward to a more fruitful 2025.
The year 2024 has indeed been eventful for the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). According to a recent press release, the ministry highlighted its strides in semiconductors, electronics, robotics, AI, and important policy updates. “These efforts aim to make technology more accessible, boost innovation, and strengthen India’s position on the global tech stage,” it noted.
Central to MeitY’s initiatives was the advancement of semiconductor manufacturing. The government approved several high-profile projects under the Semicon India Programme, including the establishment of semiconductor fabs and outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) facilities.
In February 2024, Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL) secured approval for two major investments: ₹915.26 billion for a semiconductor fab in Dholera, Gujarat, in collaboration with Taiwan’s PSMC, and ₹271.2 billion for an OSAT facility in Assam. These aims to produce 50,000 wafer starts per month and 48 million units per day, respectively.
Additionally, other projects, such as CG Power’s OSAT facility and Kaynes Technology’s assembly facility, further strengthens India’s semiconductor ecosystem, positioning it as a key player in the global supply chain.
Alongside the semiconductor push, MeitY also took notable steps in advancing AI and robotics. The IndiaAI Mission was expanded with the launch of the INDIAai portal, which serves as a comprehensive resource hub for AI research, startups, and funding opportunities. The launch of the AIRAWAT platform for AI research and supercomputing infrastructure secured India the 75th position in the global supercomputing rankings.
To support robotics innovation, MeitY also formed an inter-ministerial committee focused on developing a national robotics ecosystem to foster research, design, and manufacturing in this rapidly evolving sector.
In electronics, MeitY advanced the Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0) Scheme, attracting investments to create industry-ready infrastructure for electronics manufacturers. This initiative includes large-scale projects in Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, with an expected investment of over ₹200 billion and the creation of thousands of jobs.
Additionally, the Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) provided ₹79.6 billion in funding to boost the domestic electronics components industry, which will further enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities.
MeitY also focused on capacity building, particularly in digital literacy and skill development. The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) exceeded its target, reaching 639 million individuals by March 2024.
In parallel, the Ministry supported the creation of an ecosystem for electronics system design and manufacturing (ESDM) through skill development initiatives, with over 490,000 individuals trained under various schemes. These efforts are crucial for nurturing a skilled workforce to support India’s growing tech industry.
Policy reforms were another focal point in 2024. MeitY introduced stricter standards for CCTV security, enhancing cybersecurity in the country. These updated regulations, taking effect in October 2024, require all CCTV cameras manufactured or sold in India to meet high-security standards, contributing to more substantial surveillance infrastructure.
Welcoming the new year 2025, MeitY’s plans are geared towards solidifying India’s digital future. The ministry aims to accelerate semiconductor production through collaborations and production-linked incentives (PLIs).
Significant resources will be directed towards expanding AI capabilities, particularly in healthcare, education, and agriculture, with a focus on generative AI. Efforts to enhance digital public infrastructure, such as Aadhaar and UPI, will continue, alongside strengthening cybersecurity to safeguard India’s growing digital ecosystem.
Surely enough, the electronics industry has high expectations for the Union Budget this year. MeitY might receive enhanced allocations as India’s electronics manufacturing strives towards a $500 billion goal by 2030. The Finance Ministry has already greenlighted a ₹250 billion incentive scheme for electronic components production, which is currently awaiting cabinet approval.
Will India achieve new heights with its constant push to reduce reliance on imports from China and nurture local manufacturing? Time will tell.
