IIT(ISM)’s Circuit Hailed at Semicon India 2025
Dhanbad: The Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad has received national recognition for its innovative contributions to chip design at Semicon India 2025. This prestigious event, held in New Delhi, showcased the advancements in semiconductor technology and India’s vision for self-reliance in this critical sector.
Introduction to Semicon India 2025
Semicon India 2025, inaugurated on September 2, 2025, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is a key event aimed at promoting India as a global hub for semiconductor innovation. During the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi referred to semiconductor chips as the “digital diamonds of the 21st century,” emphasizing their importance in the modern technological landscape.
Development of APEEC1
A team from the Department of Electronics Engineering at IIT(ISM), led by Dr. Rajeev Kumar Ranjan, developed an integrated circuit named APEEC1. This innovative chip was highlighted at the event and represents a significant advancement in indigenous chip design.
Funding and Support
The design process for APEEC1 commenced in 2023, supported by an initial grant of ₹1.12 crore from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). This ministry is the nodal government agency responsible for overseeing electronics, information technology, digital governance, and cybersecurity initiatives in India.
Technical Specifications
APEEC1 is a low-power analog memristor emulator that mimics biological synapses, making it a vital component for real-time adaptive learning systems. The chip operates within a frequency range of 1 MHz to 30 MHz, ensuring energy efficiency while delivering high performance.
Significance of APEEC1
Dr. Ranjan expressed that APEEC1 is a meaningful step toward achieving India’s vision of semiconductor self-reliance. He stated, “This chip demonstrates how academic research can transform into tangible silicon with real-world impact.” The development of such technologies is crucial for India as it seeks to enhance its capabilities in semiconductor manufacturing and design.
Government Support for Semiconductor Development
The Indian government has been actively promoting the semiconductor industry through various policies and initiatives. The focus is on creating a robust ecosystem that supports research, development, and manufacturing of semiconductor technologies. This is evident from the financial backing provided to projects like APEEC1, which aligns with the national agenda for technological advancement.
Future Prospects
The recognition received at Semicon India 2025 is expected to pave the way for further innovations in semiconductor technology from Indian institutions. As India aims to position itself as a leader in this domain, collaborations between academia and industry will be essential for fostering innovation and achieving self-sufficiency.
Conclusion
The success of IIT(ISM) Dhanbad at Semicon India 2025 highlights the potential of Indian institutions in contributing to the global semiconductor landscape. With continued support from the government and a focus on research and development, India is poised to make significant strides in semiconductor technology, ultimately benefiting various sectors including electronics, telecommunications, and artificial intelligence.
Note: This article is based on the latest developments in semiconductor technology and the contributions of Indian institutions as of September 2025.
