India's Semiconductor Industry Can Face Talent Shortfall By 2027
The semiconductor industry is poised to generate around 10 lakh jobs globally by 2025–26, says TeamLease
The burgeoning semiconductor industry faces a potential deficit of 2.5–3 lakh professionals by 2027. Roles across the domains of research and development, design, manufacturing and advanced packaging are projected to be affected by this deficit, according to a report by TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship on Tuesday.
The country is staring at a substantial talent shortfall despite initiatives by leading global electronic manufacturers and targeted government efforts positioning India prominently in the global semiconductor manufacturing space, it said.
With the semiconductor industry expected to grow into a $100 billion sector by 2030, it is poised to generate around 10 lakh jobs globally by 2025–26, aligning with India's broader economic and industrial aspirations.
The Electronics Sector Skill Council is currently addressing skill shortages through over 35 apprenticeship courses under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme.
Sumit Kumar, chief business officer at TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, highlighted a remarkable increase in electronics industry apprenticeships, which surged from 7,517 in 2019–20 to 91,948 in 2023–24, marking a 12.2-fold rise.
He emphasised the critical role of government support, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of industry, academia and training providers in building a robust semiconductor ecosystem in India.
Semiconductor Manufacturing In India
In December 2021, the Indian government approved a substantial outlay of Rs 76,000 crore to bolster the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem, offering incentives across the supply chain, from electronic components to sub-assemblies and finished goods. This strategic move aimed to position India as a key player in the global semiconductor market.
Building on this foundation, the government launched the India Semiconductor Mission in 2021, introducing initiatives such as the design-linked incentive scheme. Schemes were set up for establishing compound semiconductors, silicon photonics, sensor fabs, semiconductor assembly, testing, marking, and packaging or outsourcing semiconductor assembly and test facilities in India.