Hyderabad: DRDO orchestrated the Curtain Raiser for the Emerging Science, Technology & Innovation Conclave (ESTIC-2025) at DRDL Hyderabad. As one of the major hosts, DRDO will lead the thematic session on “Electronics & Semiconductor Manufacturing” — a key strand in the 11-session roadmap.
DRDO role in India Semiconductor Mission
Addressing an engaged audience, Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence Research & Development (DDR&D) and Chairman DRDO, emphasized that semiconductors lie at the heart of every modern technological ecosystem — from healthcare and transport to communications, defence, and space systems.
He underlined that digitalization, automation, and technological sovereignty are impossible without a robust semiconductor base.
India Semiconductor Mission
Tracing India’s semiconductor journey, Dr Kamat recalled the bold launch of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) in 2021. He noted that in just four years, India has begun progressing from vision to action.
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He restated India’s aspirational goal: becoming one of the top three nations globally in semiconductor research, innovation and talent by 2036.
DRDO achievements in India Semiconductor Mission
In a powerful reveal, DRDO also announced that it has developed indigenous capabilities to produce 4-inch Silicon Carbide (SiC) wafers and fabricate Gallium Nitride (GaN) High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs) up to 150 W — a milestone in India’s push for self-reliance in advanced device tech.
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The ESTIC-2025 will run from 3 to 5 November 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, under the theme “Viksit Bharat 2047 – Pioneering Sustainable Innovation, Technological Advancement, and Empowerment.” The conclave is backed by 13 ministries and departments and guided by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.