Micron breaks ground on new semiconductor plant in India

Micron Technology, a US-based chipmaker, conducted the groundbreaking ceremony for its $2.75 billion Assembly, Testing, and Packaging Plant (ATMP) in Sanand, Gujarat. The event took place at Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation's (GIDC) industrial estate in Sanand, where Micron has been allocated 93 acres of land for this massive project.

Micron breaks ground on new semiconductor plant in India

This project represents a significant investment under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and has been made possible through the cooperation and support of both the Indian and US governments. It signifies a crucial step towards advancing India's capabilities in semiconductor manufacturing and reducing its dependence on imports.

The groundbreaking event occurred in a remarkably short timeframe, with construction commencing less than three months after the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This speed of execution underscores the commitment of all stakeholders involved.

Tata Projects, a leading infrastructure development company, announced its partnership with Micron Technology for the construction of the semiconductor assembly and test plant in Sanand. This collaboration reinforces Tata Projects' proficiency in large-scale, sustainable infrastructure development in the Indian manufacturing landscape.

The project's Phase 1 construction will encompass a 500,000 square feet clean room space, scheduled to become operational by late 2024. The clean room space is a critical component for semiconductor manufacturing, providing a controlled environment essential for producing high-quality chips.

Micron's decision to establish its plant in Gujarat aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for India in the global semiconductor ecosystem. It reflects India's rapid progress in attracting global semiconductor leaders to invest in the country. The plant is expected to create 5,000 direct and 15,000 indirect jobs and produce semiconductor chips for both domestic consumption and export.

The Gujarat government's dedicated efforts to foster semiconductor manufacturing, including the introduction of the "Gujarat Semiconductor Policy 2022-2027," have played a pivotal role in attracting investments in the chip manufacturing sector. Additionally, the establishment of the Gujarat State Electronics Mission (GSEM) has further facilitated global investment in the state.

This groundbreaking ceremony signifies a crucial step in achieving PM Modi's ambitious Semicon India Program, which aims to make India self-reliant in the global semiconductor supply chain manufacturing. Semiconductor chips are integral to various industries, from automobiles and mobile phones to railways and defense, and their importance in modern products cannot be overstated.

With investments from companies like Micron Technology, India is rapidly emerging as a major hub for electronics manufacturing. The semiconductor sector alone has crossed ₹8.25 lakh crore (approximately $110 billion) and has generated over 2.5 million jobs. This development aligns with India's broader efforts to enhance its manufacturing capabilities and reduce its dependence on imports.