Chip industry faces shortage of 7 lakh workers by 2030: IESA chief
The semiconductor industry is on the cusp of a significant crisis, with a looming shortage of skilled workers threatening to disrupt the global supply chain. According to Ashok Chandak, President of the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), the sector could face a staggering shortage of around seven lakh workers by 2030. This alarming prediction has far-reaching implications for the industry, but it also presents a unique opportunity for India to fill the void and establish itself as a leader in the semiconductor sector.
The semiconductor industry is a vital component of the global electronics ecosystem, with applications in everything from smartphones and laptops to automotive systems and medical devices. The industry’s growth has been driven by the increasing demand for these devices, as well as the need for more sophisticated and efficient semiconductor technology. However, this growth has also created a pressing need for skilled workers who can design, manufacture, and test these complex devices.
The shortage of skilled workers in the semiconductor industry is a global problem, with companies in the United States, Europe, and Asia all struggling to find the talent they need. This shortage is driven by a combination of factors, including an aging workforce, a lack of qualified graduates, and the increasing complexity of semiconductor technology. As a result, companies are being forced to compete aggressively for a limited pool of skilled workers, driving up wages and making it difficult for new entrants to break into the market.
However, according to Chandak, this crisis also presents an opportunity for India to establish itself as a major player in the semiconductor industry. With its large and growing population of young people, India has the potential to provide the skilled workers that the industry needs. “Worldwide, there is a problem, and India has the opportunity to fill the void,” Chandak stated. By investing in education and training programs that focus on semiconductor technology, India can develop a workforce that is equipped to meet the needs of the industry.
To tackle the issue of the workforce shortage, Chandak highlighted the need to update the technical curriculum and develop manufacturing-related training programmes. This would involve working with educational institutions to develop courses and programs that are tailored to the needs of the semiconductor industry. It would also require collaboration with industry partners to provide students with hands-on training and experience.
The Indian government has already taken steps to promote the development of the semiconductor industry, including the establishment of the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). The ISM is a national initiative that aims to promote the growth of the semiconductor industry in India, through a combination of policy support, investment, and skill development. The initiative has identified several key areas of focus, including the development of a skilled workforce, the establishment of manufacturing infrastructure, and the promotion of research and development.
In addition to the ISM, there are several other initiatives underway to promote the development of the semiconductor industry in India. For example, the government has established several semiconductor fabrication plants, including the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Hyderabad and the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Calicut. These plants provide a platform for research and development, as well as a source of skilled workers for the industry.
The semiconductor industry is also attracting significant investment from private companies, both domestic and international. Several major companies, including Intel, Samsung, and Texas Instruments, have established operations in India, and are investing heavily in research and development, manufacturing, and skill development. These investments are not only creating jobs and driving economic growth, but also helping to promote the development of a skilled workforce.
In conclusion, the shortage of skilled workers in the semiconductor industry is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. However, it also presents a unique opportunity for India to establish itself as a leader in the sector. By investing in education and training programs, and working with industry partners to develop a skilled workforce, India can fill the void and provide the workers that the industry needs. As Chandak stated, “Worldwide, there is a problem, and India has the opportunity to fill the void.” With the right policies, investments, and initiatives, India can capitalize on this opportunity and establish itself as a major player in the global semiconductor industry.
About the Author
