Table of Contents

APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 03/04/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (03-04-2025).

Mains Question & Model Answer

Question:

“India’s semiconductor manufacturing push is a crucial step towards self-reliance in technology and economic security. Examine the challenges and opportunities in India’s semiconductor industry and suggest a strategic roadmap for its development.”

Model Answer

Introduction:

Semiconductors are the backbone of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones to defense systems. India’s push for domestic semiconductor manufacturing under the ‘India Semiconductor Mission’ is a strategic move to reduce import dependency and become a global hub.

Opportunities in India’s Semiconductor Industry

1️⃣ Economic and Strategic Benefits

Reducing Import Dependency: India currently imports over 90% of its semiconductors (MeitY, 2024).
Enhancing Digital and Defense Sectors: Essential for 5G, AI, and defense technologies.

2️⃣ Government Support and Policy Initiatives

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM): ₹76,000 crore incentive package (Union Budget 2023-24).
PLI Scheme for Semiconductors: Encourages investment from global chipmakers.
MoUs with Global Giants: Foxconn, Vedanta, and TSMC exploring Indian partnerships.

3️⃣ Demographic and Market Advantage

Skilled Workforce: India produces 2.5 million STEM graduates annually (AISHE, 2023).
Growing Electronics Market: The Indian electronics industry is projected to reach $400 billion by 2026.

Challenges Hindering Semiconductor Growth

1️⃣ Lack of Fabrication Facilities (Fabs)

India lacks advanced fabrication plants (fabs), which require ultra-pure water and stable electricity supply.
High initial investment (>$10 billion per fab) acts as a deterrent.

2️⃣ Global Supply Chain Dependencies

Critical raw materials like silicon wafers and rare earth metals are import-dependent.
The global semiconductor supply chain is dominated by Taiwan (TSMC) and South Korea (Samsung).

3️⃣ Technological and R&D Gaps

India lags in cutting-edge chip manufacturing (below 7 nm nodes).
Limited patent filings and indigenous chip design ecosystem.

4️⃣ Infrastructure and Energy Constraints

Semiconductor fabs require uninterrupted power and high-quality water supply.
Issues like land acquisition and environmental clearances slow down projects.

Strategic Roadmap for India’s Semiconductor Industry

1️⃣ Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing

✅ Developing Indigenous Foundries: Invest in fabs in Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
✅ Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Establish dedicated semiconductor hubs with tax incentives.

2️⃣ Enhancing R&D and Innovation

✅ Collaboration with IITs and Global Universities: Set up chip-design labs and research centers.
✅ Encouraging Startups: Promote semiconductor startups under the Startup India Mission.

3️⃣ Strengthening Global Partnerships

✅ Strategic Alliances with Taiwan, USA, Japan for technology transfer.
✅ Joining International Semiconductor Alliances (like CHIPS Act, US-EU Trade Council).

4️⃣ Infrastructure & Policy Reforms

✅ Improving Power and Water Supply for Fabs (24×7 uninterrupted supply).
✅ Reducing Bureaucratic Delays in project clearances and approvals.

Conclusion:

India’s semiconductor journey is at a critical juncture. By focusing on manufacturing, R&D, and global collaborations, India can become a key player in the global chip supply chain. With the right policies and investments, India can transition from a semiconductor importer to a global leader in chip production.

✨ Looking for top-quality APSC Mains Guidance with Personalised Mentor?

🔔 Join Our WhatsApp Study Group!

For exclusive access to premium quality content, including study materials, current affairs, MCQs, and model answers for APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exams.

Click here to join: SuchitraACS Study WhatsApp Group