Emphasis on 'Whole of Industry' Approach for India's Semiconductor and Electronics Sector at Semicon India 2026
India is focusing on coordinated and collective cooperation between various industry bodies to achieve its electronics and semiconductor goals.
India's electronics and semiconductor sector is currently undergoing a critical phase, characterized by large-scale investments and the increasing presence of global companies. To further this growth, industry leaders have emphasized the need to adopt a strong and coordinated approach to transform the capabilities of individual sectors into a collective national capacity.
A panel discussion titled "Role of Industry Associations in Advancing India's National Agenda" was held during Semicon India 2026. The session, moderated by Mr. Amitesh Kumar Sinha, CEO of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), featured senior representatives from various industry associations. During the discussion, it was agreed that sectors such as semiconductors, electronics manufacturing, design, packaging, and components are interdependent; therefore, adopting a coordinated "whole of industry" approach is essential for success.
The panel discussion highlighted the growing convergence between various technology sectors as a key theme. Experts suggested moving beyond individual events to establish a sustainable community mechanism that can foster continuous dialogue and coordination among different associations. The aim of this initiative is not to change the roles of existing associations but to provide a shared platform where they can collaborate on common issues linked to the value chain. This is being viewed as a broader "silicon to systems" approach.
The success of Semicon India 2026 was evident with the participation of over 600 exhibitors, including approximately 300 international companies. During the event, a total of 56 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and strategic announcements were made in the fields of manufacturing, design, packaging, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Research and Development (R&D), logistics, and skill development.
At the government level, domestic capabilities are being strengthened through Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and the India Semiconductor Mission. Under the Semicon India program, the government has approved 12 semiconductor projects, five of which have become operational commercial units by September 2026.
This important panel discussion included Mr. Ajit Manocha, CEO and President of SEMI; Mr. Pankaj Mahindru, President of ICEA; Mr. Raju Goyal, Director General of ELCINA; Colonel Suhail Zaidi, Director General of MAIT; and Mr. Ashok Chandak, President of SEMI India.
