The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved milestone by developing an aerospace-quality SHAKTI-based semiconductor chip. This initiative aligns with the ‘Digital India RISC-V’ programme, which promotes the indigenisation of microprocessor technology. The project aims to enhance security and visibility for users adopting RISC-V technology, an open-source Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) designed for custom processor development.
Overview of the SHAKTI Project
The SHAKTI project is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. It focuses on the development of microprocessor-based products in India. The project aims to establish a robust semiconductor ecosystem within the country, reducing dependency on foreign technology.
IRIS Chip Development
The Indigenous RISCV Controller for Space Applications (IRIS) chip is a versatile component. It supports various domains, including Internet of Things (IoT) and strategic computing systems. The chip was conceived by the ISRO Inertial Systems Unit in Thiruvananthapuram and developed by IIT Madras. This collaboration marks step towards self-reliance in semiconductor technology.
Manufacturing and Testing
The IRIS chip was manufactured by Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Chandigarh. It was packaged by Tata Advanced Systems in Karnataka. This end-to-end development process showcases India’s capability in semiconductor design, fabrication, and assembly. The chip has successfully passed initial boot tests at IIT Madras.
Significance for Space Applications
ISRO Chairman V Narayanan brought into light the importance of this development for future space missions. The high-performance controller is expected to enhance embedded systems for mission-critical applications. A flight test of a product based on the IRIS controller is planned to validate its performance in real-world scenarios.
Contributions to ‘Make in India’
This achievement is a testament to the ‘Make in India’ initiative. It demonstrates India’s growing expertise in semiconductor technology. The successful development of the IRIS chip reinforces the nation’s commitment to encouraging indigenous capabilities in advanced technology sectors.
Future Prospects
The success of the IRIS chip paves the way for further advancements in semiconductor technology in India. It opens avenues for innovation in various fields, including aerospace, defence, and telecommunications. The collaboration between IIT Madras and ISRO sets a precedent for future projects aimed at enhancing India’s technological landscape.
Research and Development Leadership
The project was led by V Kamakoti at the Prathap Subrahmanyam Centre for Digital Intelligence and Secure Hardware Architecture at IIT Madras. The team’s efforts in chip design and fabrication highlight the capabilities of Indian institutions in developing cutting-edge technology.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the RISC-V architecture in the global semiconductor landscape.
- Critically examine the role of indigenous semiconductor technology in India’s strategic autonomy.
- Explain the impact of the ‘Make in India’ initiative on the country’s technological advancements.
- With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by India in semiconductor manufacturing and design.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the significance of the RISC-V architecture in the global semiconductor landscape.
- RISC-V is an open-source Instruction Set Architecture (ISA) promoting collaboration and innovation.
- It allows for customization, enabling tailored solutions for diverse applications.
- Global adoption of RISC-V is increasing, influencing the design of future microprocessors.
- RISC-V enhances security and reduces dependency on proprietary architectures.
- Its community-driven development encourages a robust ecosystem for semiconductor advancements.
2. Critically examine the role of indigenous semiconductor technology in India’s strategic autonomy.
- Indigenous semiconductor technology reduces reliance on foreign suppliers for critical components.
- It strengthens national security by ensuring control over essential technologies.
- Promotes self-reliance in defense and space applications, crucial for strategic initiatives.
- Encourages local innovation and skill development in advanced technology sectors.
- Supports economic growth by encouraging a domestic semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.
3. Explain the impact of the ‘Make in India’ initiative on the country’s technological advancements.
- ‘Make in India’ has spurred investment in manufacturing and technology sectors.
- It promotes local production, reducing import dependency for high-tech products.
- Encourages collaborations between academia and industry, enhancing R&D capabilities.
- Boosts job creation and skill development in emerging technologies.
- Drives innovation and entrepreneurship in the Indian tech landscape.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by India in semiconductor manufacturing and design.
- High initial investment and capital expenditure required for semiconductor fabs.
- Limited access to advanced manufacturing technologies and equipment.
- Shortage of skilled workforce in semiconductor design and fabrication.
- Global competition from established semiconductor powerhouses like the USA and Taiwan.
- Supply chain vulnerabilities, especially during geopolitical tensions or crises.
