Modernisation of SCL Mohali Strengthens India's Chip Vision

The semiconductor industry got a major boost today as the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA) welcomed the government’s Rs 4,500-crore plan to modernise Semiconductor Complex Limited (SCL) in Mohali.

The upgrade aims to unlock faster pilot production, small-volume fabrication, and early-stage prototyping—helping turn new chip ideas into market-ready products at a much quicker pace.

IESA President Ashok Chandak urged tight coordination between the Centre and the Punjab government to speed up land allotment and infrastructure clearances. He said delays at this stage could slow down crucial progress for an industry that relies heavily on precision timelines.

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The revamp will focus on establishing a 180 nm fabrication node, which IESA says can open up a wide range of business opportunities and scale the plant’s output nearly 100 times. The association added that a successful 180 nm line will also serve as a foundation for future upgrades to more advanced technology nodes.

IESA highlighted that this capability is essential for national strategic needs in defence, aerospace, space, and other sectors that depend on secure, indigenous semiconductor manufacturing. The body also sees SCL evolving into a national training hub, offering EDA-tool access, hands-on learning, and strong industry-academia collaboration to build India’s next generation of chip talent.

Stable policy and financial support under the India Semiconductor Mission will further help SCL integrate into the wider supply chain and strengthen India’s export and innovation goals. The Centre’s consortium approach with C-DAC, DRDO, ISRO, and the state government is expected to make the facility both impactful and competitive.

Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the roadmap set by the Prime Minister includes a massive capacity jump, targeting 100 times more wafer production. SCL Mohali will also continue supporting students, researchers, and startups by turning their chip designs into real silicon.