Chip industry faces shortage of 7 lakh workers by 2030: IESA chief
The semiconductor industry is on the cusp of a significant challenge, with a projected shortage of around 7 lakh workers by 2030. This alarming prediction was made by Ashok Chandak, President of the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA). According to Chandak, the worldwide shortage of skilled workers in the semiconductor sector presents a unique opportunity for India to fill the void and establish itself as a major player in the industry.
The semiconductor industry is a vital component of the global electronics ecosystem, with applications spanning across various sectors, including consumer electronics, automotive, healthcare, and telecommunications. The increasing demand for electronic devices and the growing need for advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G, have fueled the growth of the semiconductor industry. However, the industry’s rapid expansion has also created a significant challenge: the shortage of skilled workers.
Chandak emphasized that the shortage of workers is not limited to India, but is a global phenomenon. “Worldwide, there is a problem, and India has the opportunity to fill the void,” he stated. This presents a significant opportunity for India to capitalize on the shortage and establish itself as a hub for semiconductor manufacturing and design. With the right policies and initiatives, India can attract investments, create jobs, and develop a skilled workforce to cater to the growing demands of the industry.
To address the shortage of workers, Chandak highlighted the need to update the technical curriculum and develop manufacturing-related training programs. The current education system, he argued, is not equipped to provide students with the necessary skills to meet the industry’s requirements. There is a need to revamp the curriculum to include courses and training programs that focus on semiconductor manufacturing, design, and testing. This will enable students to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to join the industry and contribute to its growth.
The Indian government has already taken steps to promote the growth of the semiconductor industry. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched several initiatives, including the National Policy on Electronics (NPE), to promote the development of the electronics and semiconductor industry. The NPE aims to create a conducive ecosystem for the growth of the industry, including the development of semiconductor manufacturing facilities, design centers, and testing labs.
In addition to government initiatives, industry players are also taking steps to address the shortage of workers. Several companies, including global majors, have established training programs and centers of excellence to develop skills and provide training to students and professionals. These programs focus on various aspects of semiconductor manufacturing, including design, testing, and packaging.
The shortage of workers in the semiconductor industry also presents an opportunity for India to promote entrepreneurship and innovation. With the right ecosystem and support, startups and entrepreneurs can develop innovative solutions and products that cater to the industry’s needs. This can include the development of new technologies, such as AI-powered design tools, or innovative manufacturing processes that improve efficiency and reduce costs.
In conclusion, the projected shortage of 7 lakh workers in the semiconductor industry by 2030 is a significant challenge that requires immediate attention. However, it also presents a unique opportunity for India to establish itself as a major player in the industry. By updating the technical curriculum, developing manufacturing-related training programs, and promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, India can capitalize on the shortage and create a skilled workforce that meets the industry’s needs. With the right policies and initiatives, India can become a hub for semiconductor manufacturing and design, creating jobs and driving economic growth.
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