Chip industry faces shortage of 7 lakh workers by 2030: IESA chief
The semiconductor industry is on the cusp of a significant transformation, driven by the increasing demand for chips in various sectors, including automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics. However, this growth is threatened by a looming shortage of skilled workers. According to Ashok Chandak, President of the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), the global chip industry is expected to face a shortage of around seven lakh workers by 2030. This shortage presents a significant opportunity for India to fill the void and establish itself as a major player in the semiconductor sector.
The semiconductor industry is a critical component of the global electronics ecosystem, and its growth is driven by the increasing demand for chips in various applications. The industry is expected to continue growing, driven by the adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G. However, the shortage of skilled workers threatens to hinder this growth, and the industry is looking to countries like India to provide the necessary talent.
“Worldwide, there is a problem, and India has the opportunity to fill the void,” Chandak stated, highlighting the need for India to develop a robust semiconductor ecosystem. The IESA chief emphasized the need to update the technical curriculum and develop manufacturing-related training programs to tackle the issue. This would enable India to produce a large pool of skilled workers who can cater to the needs of the global semiconductor industry.
The shortage of skilled workers in the semiconductor industry is a global phenomenon, and it is not limited to India. The industry is facing a significant shortage of workers with expertise in areas such as chip design, manufacturing, and testing. The shortage is attributed to various factors, including the lack of awareness about the semiconductor industry, limited job opportunities, and the perception that the industry is not glamorous.
To address the shortage, the Indian government and industry stakeholders need to work together to create awareness about the semiconductor industry and the career opportunities it offers. This can be achieved through various initiatives, such as organizing seminars, workshops, and conferences that showcase the industry’s potential and the skills required to succeed in it.
Furthermore, the government and industry stakeholders need to invest in developing a robust semiconductor ecosystem in India. This includes setting up semiconductor fabrication plants, testing and packaging facilities, and design centers. It also involves developing a network of institutions that offer courses and training programs in semiconductor engineering and related fields.
The development of a robust semiconductor ecosystem in India would not only help to address the global shortage of skilled workers but also create significant economic opportunities for the country. The semiconductor industry is a high-growth industry, and it has the potential to create a large number of jobs, both directly and indirectly. According to a report by the IESA, the Indian semiconductor industry has the potential to create over 10 lakh jobs by 2025, with the majority of these jobs being created in the manufacturing sector.
In addition to creating jobs, the development of a robust semiconductor ecosystem in India would also help to reduce the country’s dependence on imports of electronic components. India is one of the largest importers of electronic components, and the development of a domestic semiconductor industry would help to reduce the trade deficit and promote economic growth.
In conclusion, the shortage of skilled workers in the semiconductor industry presents a significant opportunity for India to establish itself as a major player in the sector. The Indian government and industry stakeholders need to work together to create awareness about the industry, develop a robust semiconductor ecosystem, and invest in education and training programs that cater to the needs of the industry. By doing so, India can fill the void created by the global shortage of skilled workers and create significant economic opportunities for itself.
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