PM Modi Inaugurates Micron Technology Semiconductor Facility in Gujarat, Calls Chips the ‘Regulator of the 21st Century’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Micron Technology’s Semiconductor Assembly, Test, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) facility in Sanand, describing the development as a historic milestone in India’s march toward global technology leadership.
The inauguration marks the commencement of commercial production at the state-of-the-art facility and is being seen as a major boost to India’s ambitions of becoming a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said the project reflects the speed and scale at which “New India” is transforming policy into production.
“India, long known for its software strength, is now firmly establishing its identity in the hardware sector as well,” Modi said. He added that while the world recently witnessed India’s capabilities during a major AI summit, the launch of the semiconductor facility demonstrates the country’s commitment to technology leadership in tangible terms.
Calling the 21st century the era of the AI revolution, the Prime Minister underscored the strategic importance of semiconductors. “If oil was the regulator of the last century, microchips will be the regulator of this century,” he remarked, describing chips as the bridge between the Industrial Revolution and the Artificial Intelligence revolution.
Modi highlighted the rapid execution of the Sanand project as evidence of India’s improving ease of doing business. The Memorandum of Understanding for the project was signed in June 2023, followed by the groundbreaking ceremony in September 2023. By February 2024, installation of machinery in the pilot facility had begun, culminating in the start of commercial production in February 2026.
He noted that complex regulatory processes have been significantly streamlined, with mechanisms such as Advanced Pricing Agreements being cleared in a matter of months—far quicker than timelines typically seen in many developed nations. “When the intent is clear and dedication is towards the nation’s rapid development, policies become transparent and decisions gain momentum,” the Prime Minister said.
Describing the facility as a symbol of the strong India–United States partnership in AI and chip technology, Modi said the two democracies are working together to secure global supply chains, particularly in critical minerals and semiconductor manufacturing.
The Prime Minister pointed out that India’s Semiconductor Mission was announced during the Covid-19 pandemic, at a time when global supply chains were severely disrupted. “The seeds we planted with conviction are now bearing fruit,” he said, adding that India is rapidly becoming an integral part of the global semiconductor value chain.
Under the Semicon India programme, 10 projects have been approved so far, with three more set to begin production soon in states including Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Odisha and Punjab. Modi emphasized that the emerging semiconductor ecosystem is pan-India in nature and not confined to a single region.
“A semiconductor ecosystem is far more than just a factory,” he said, explaining that it encompasses machine manufacturers, design engineers, research institutions, logistics networks and skilled technicians. He announced that the Union Budget has introduced the India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 to further strengthen the entire value chain.
The Sanand facility is expected to manufacture D-RAM and NAND solutions catering to global data centers, AI applications and mobile devices. The Prime Minister noted that it houses one of the world’s largest ATMP cleanrooms and incorporates sustainable practices, including minimized water consumption.
Highlighting India’s expanding domestic market, Modi said a significant portion of the population is becoming first-time users of gadgets, driving demand across electronics and automobiles. Over the past 11 years, India’s electronics production and exports have grown manifold, he added, making the country an attractive destination for both domestic and global investors.
Referring to Sanand’s earlier transformation into an automobile hub, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that it would now anchor a vibrant semiconductor cluster. He praised the Gujarat government for simplifying approvals, land allotment and utilities, stating that both Sanand and Dholera are emerging as major semiconductor hubs in western India.
Concluding his address, Modi delivered a clear message to global investors: “India is ready. India is reliable. India delivers.” He asserted that the world now recognizes that “India is Capable, India is Competitive, India is Committed,” marking what he described as a historic turning point in the country’s technological journey.
