Congress Counters PM’s Remark, Highlights Semiconductor Lab’s 1983 Launch

Rapid Summary

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his Independence Day address on August 15, 2025, announced that the first made-in-India semiconductor chip will be launched by the end of this year.
• Mr. Modi asserted that discussions on establishing semiconductor factories began 50-60 years ago but faced “foeticide,” hindering progress.
• He emphasized India’s current focus on moving forward in semiconductor manufacturing with a mission-driven approach while acknowledging past setbacks.
• Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized PM Modi for his comments, stating that Semiconductor Complex Limited was established and operational in chandigarh in 1983.
• Mr. Ramesh’s remarks were echoed through a tweet accusing the Prime Minister of misrepresenting facts.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The exchange highlights differing perspectives between political leaderships regarding India’s trajectory in semiconductor development-a vital sector for technological independence. PM Modi’s speech underscores ambitions to modernize and transform India into a global player in chip manufacturing amid decades of underdevelopment. The Congress rebuttal emphasizes existing historical efforts like Semiconductor Complex Limited established in 1983.

It is clear India faces challenges but also opportunities as it seeks self-reliance within an industry critical to global supply chains,especially during geopolitical tensions impacting semiconductor access worldwide. While strides are now being made through initiatives like “Made-in-India semiconductors,” acknowledgment and learning from past achievements may strengthen collective efforts toward success.Read more: The Hindu