Silicon Sunrise: Mohali’s SCL Gets ₹900 Cr High-Tech Makeover

The Centre has allocated ₹900 crore for the modernisation of the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Mohali under a broader ₹4,500-crore roadmap announced in the Union Budget 2026–27.

Located in Phase 8 of Mohali’s Industrial Area, the upgrade is aimed at transforming SCL from a legacy fabrication facility into a state-of-the-art semiconductor hub capable of supporting advanced chip development, prototyping, and manufacturing. The modernisation programme will upgrade infrastructure, introduce new fabrication technologies, and expand production capacity to address growing industry requirements.

The initiative forms part of the government’s wider semiconductor mission to reduce India’s dependence on imported chips and strengthen its integration into the global electronics value chain. It is also expected to enhance domestic capabilities in critical sectors such as telecommunications, automotive electronics, defence, and space technologies.

A key component of the upgrade is the establishment of an indigenous tape-out facility, which will enable Indian startups and R&D institutions to develop physical chip prototypes domestically, significantly reducing reliance on overseas facilities.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.