Veldhoven(Netherlands) January 23: Union Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw underscored the significance of his visit to Veldhoven, the Netherlands, as part of India's ambitious semiconductor mission. Vaishnaw emphasized the pivotal role of lithography in semiconductor manufacturing, describing it as the most complex and precision-driven process in the entire chip production chain.
Lithography, the process of printing intricate circuits onto semiconductor wafers, is crucial for chip fabrication. Vaishnaw highlighted that ASML, a leading semiconductor equipment manufacturer based in the Netherlands, is the global frontrunner in providing the advanced lithographic tools essential for producing virtually every semiconductor chip in the world.
He further announced that India's upcoming semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera, Gujarat, will be equipped with ASML's cutting-edge lithography technology. "India has embarked on a journey to build a new semiconductor industry, and lithography is the most intricate and precise part of this process. ASML, the world's top provider of lithographic tools, enables the production of nearly every chip worldwide. Our fab in Dholera will rely on ASML equipment for chip manufacturing," Vaishnaw stated.
The Union Minister also noted that his visit was an opportunity to explore advanced technologies and enhance global collaboration. He described this engagement as a significant opportunity for India, as various international equipment manufacturers are now looking to establish a presence in the country. This interest is fueled by India's robust design capabilities, highly skilled workforce, and consistent government policies.
"Many global equipment makers are now considering setting up operations in India due to the nation's strong design expertise, skilled talent, and the stability provided by our Prime Minister's policies," Vaishnaw added, emphasizing India's growing influence in the global semiconductor ecosystem.
India's semiconductor journey took a significant step forward in September 2025 when the first set of Made-in-India chips, produced on a pilot line, was presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Minister Vaishnaw, marking a major milestone in the nation's high-tech manufacturing and innovation ambitions.
