Chip industry faces shortage of 7 lakh workers by 2030: IESA chief
The Indian semiconductor industry is poised for significant growth, driven by the government’s initiatives to promote electronics manufacturing and the increasing demand for chips in various sectors. However, the industry is likely to face a major challenge in the coming years – a shortage of skilled workers. According to Ashok Chandak, President of the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), the semiconductor sector could face a shortage of around seven lakh workers by 2030.
This shortage is not unique to India, as the global semiconductor industry is also facing a similar challenge. Chandak noted that “worldwide, there is a problem, and India has the opportunity to fill the void.” This presents a significant opportunity for India to develop its workforce and become a major player in the global semiconductor industry. The country can leverage its large pool of talented engineers and technicians to fill the gap and meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the sector.
The shortage of skilled workers in the semiconductor industry is a result of several factors. One of the main reasons is the rapid growth of the industry, which has created a huge demand for skilled workers. The industry is evolving rapidly, with new technologies and innovations emerging every day. This requires workers to have specialized skills and training to keep up with the latest developments. However, the current education system is not equipped to provide the necessary training and skills to meet the industry’s requirements.
To tackle this issue, Chandak emphasized the need to update the technical curriculum and develop manufacturing-related training programs. The current curriculum in most engineering colleges and technical institutions is outdated and does not provide the necessary skills and training required by the industry. There is a need to revamp the curriculum and include courses that focus on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Moreover, the industry and academia need to work together to develop training programs that provide hands-on experience and practical skills to students. This can be achieved through internships, apprenticeships, and industry-academia collaborations. Such programs will help students gain the necessary skills and experience required by the industry, making them job-ready and increasing their employability.
The government also has a crucial role to play in addressing the shortage of skilled workers in the semiconductor industry. The government can provide incentives and funding for institutions to develop specialized courses and training programs in emerging technologies. Additionally, the government can promote industry-academia collaborations and provide support for research and development in the sector.
The shortage of skilled workers in the semiconductor industry is a challenge that needs to be addressed urgently. However, it also presents a significant opportunity for India to develop its workforce and become a major player in the global semiconductor industry. With the right strategies and initiatives, India can fill the void and meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the sector.
In conclusion, the chip industry is likely to face a shortage of around seven lakh workers by 2030, as stated by IESA chief Ashok Chandak. While this is a significant challenge, it also presents a huge opportunity for India to develop its workforce and become a major player in the global semiconductor industry. To address this issue, there is a need to update the technical curriculum, develop manufacturing-related training programs, and promote industry-academia collaborations. With the right strategies and initiatives, India can fill the void and meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the sector.
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