New Delhi — Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the platform of Semicon India 2026 to present a compelling case for India as a trustworthy and stable destination for semiconductor manufacturing, framing the push within the broader context of geopolitical tensions that have turned supply chains into tools of economic coercion.
Speaking to industry leaders, policymakers, and international delegates at the event, Modi emphasised that the past decade has witnessed supply chains increasingly weaponised — used as leverage in diplomatic disputes, trade conflicts, and strategic rivalries. This shift, he argued, has created an urgent need for countries and companies to diversify their manufacturing bases rather than depend on single-source origins.
"India's attractiveness as an electronics manufacturing destination must be understood against this backdrop," Modi said during his address. "When supply chains are being treated as weapons, having reliable partners is not just an economic advantage — it is a strategic imperative for the entire world."
The Prime Minister highlighted India's growing semiconductor ecosystem, which has seen significant investments from major global players since the government announced incentive schemes under the India Semiconductor Mission. The mission, with a outlay of over ₹76,000 crore, aims to establish India as a competitive hub for chip fabrication, advanced packaging, and design across the value chain.
Modi also underscored that India's success in semiconductors would not merely benefit the country but would contribute to global technological resilience. He noted that a diversified, multi-node semiconductor supply chain would reduce vulnerabilities that have been exposed during recent global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing geopolitical friction between major powers.
Industry experts say the timing of India's push is well-calibrated. Major electronics manufacturers, particularly from South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States, have been actively evaluating alternative production sites as part of what analysts call the 'China plus one' strategy. India, with its large domestic market, skilled engineering workforce, and improving policy environment, is seen as one of the most viable alternatives.
Semicon India, organised in partnership with the Semiconductor Industry Association, is one of Asia's largest semiconductor conferences and serves as a key platform for showcasing investment opportunities, policy developments, and technological innovation in the region. The 2026 edition saw participation from thousands of delegates representing companies, research institutions, and governments worldwide.
Government officials confirmed that several new semiconductor-related projects and memoranda of understanding are expected to be announced during the two-day event, though specific details were not yet made public ahead of the closing session.
