India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0
The government is prioritizing silicon carbide (SiC)-based wafer manufacturing under the second version of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM).
Strategic Priority
- The electronics and information technology ministry is finalizing the contours of ISM 2.0 with a focus on SiC wafers.
- SiC wafers are prioritized due to their operation at higher voltages, temperatures, and frequencies.
Background
- The first phase of ISM had a financial outlay of ₹76,000 crore, with 10 projects approved so far.
- Funds from the first phase are almost exhausted.
Applications of SiC Wafers
- Next-generation applications in telecom, electric vehicles, defense, aerospace, and industrial sectors.
- Significant role in power electronics, which involves energy-efficient conversion and control of electric power using solid-state semiconductor devices.
- Key applications include industrial motor drives, renewable energy systems, and low-power devices like laptops and mobile phones.
Current Developments
- First fabrication unit for SiC wafers approved in Chennai, in collaboration with Scotland-based Clas-SiC Wafer Fab.
- Facility to be set up in Bhubaneswar with an investment of ₹2,066 crore, and an annual capacity of 60,000 wafers.
- Tata Group's ₹91,000 crore facility in Gujarat's Dholera aims to build silicon wafers.
Challenges and Industry Requests
- Domestic semiconductor firms seek enhanced government support for establishing SiC manufacturing in India.
- Example: Zoho Group-owned Silectric Semiconductor postponed its plans for an SiC campus in Karnataka, citing the need for government backing.