Gujarat Sets Up Semiconductor Training Hub at IIT Gandhinagar

Project SAMARTH, or the Silicon and Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing Research and Training Hub, is being established at IIT Gandhinagar in Gujarat with a total budget of ₹190 crore. Work on the training facility began on 2 March 2026, and the centre is linked to semiconductor manufacturing, research, and skill development.

Project SAMARTH

SAMARTH is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the Department of Science and Technology of the Gujarat government, and IIT Gandhinagar. The project name expands to Silicon and Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing Research and Training Hub.

Training and Research Functions

The centre is designed to train technicians, operators, and engineers for semiconductor manufacturing plants. It also aims to support indigenous research and development, develop niche devices and processes, and create process tools. The facility is intended to make engineering students fab-ready through practical exposure to semiconductor manufacturing systems. IIT Gandhinagar has begun procuring advanced equipment and appointing consultants for the centre.

Capacity and Outreach

Over five years, the SAMARTH centre aims to train 10,000 people. The planned trainees include 5,600 undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students, 1,500 technicians, and 1,000 participants in short-term certificate courses. IIT Gandhinagar is also preparing to sign MoUs with engineering colleges across Gujarat. The training is planned to be offered at nominal costs.

Industry Partnership

L&T Semiconductor Technologies partnered with IIT Gandhinagar on 30 August 2024 for research, development, and training. The company is associated with the SAMARTH initiative through collaboration on semiconductor-related capacity building.

Important Facts for Exams

• Semiconductors are materials with electrical conductivity between that of conductors and insulators.
• India has promoted semiconductor manufacturing and design through multiple policy and training initiatives in recent years.
• IIT Gandhinagar is an Institute of National Importance under the Institutes of Technology Act, 1961.
• Gujarat hosts several industrial and technology-linked projects related to electronics manufacturing.

Semiconductor Sector Context

Semiconductor manufacturing requires specialised training in fabrication, process control, and equipment handling. The sector uses cleanroom environments, advanced process tools, and high-precision engineering systems.