India’s First 1.0 GHz Microprocessor DHRUV64 Launched

India has reached a major milestone in semiconductor self-reliance with the development of DHRUV64, the country’s first indigenous 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor. Developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) under the Microprocessor Development Programme, the processor marks a critical step in reducing dependence on foreign chipmakers for strategic and commercial technologies.

Design and Architectural Capabilities

DHRUV64 is built on a modern 64-bit dual-core architecture designed to deliver higher computational efficiency, enhanced multitasking and improved system reliability. Operating at a clock speed of 1.0 GHz, the processor is suitable for demanding workloads while maintaining energy efficiency. The design enables seamless integration with a wide range of external hardware systems, making it adaptable across multiple technology domains.

Applications Across Strategic and Commercial Sectors

The microprocessor is intended for use in 5G infrastructure, automotive electronics, industrial automation, consumer electronics and Internet of Things applications. As microprocessors serve as the core processing units in devices ranging from smartphones and computers to satellites and defence systems, DHRUV64 provides India with a trusted indigenous option for sensitive and high-impact deployments.

Boost to Semiconductor Self-Reliance

India accounts for nearly 20% of global microprocessor consumption, largely dependent on imports. The successful development of DHRUV64 strengthens domestic capability in chip design and supports national objectives of technological sovereignty. It also enhances supply chain resilience for critical digital infrastructure and strategic applications.

What to Note for Exams?

• DHRUV64 is India’s first indigenous 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor.
• It is developed by C-DAC under the Microprocessor Development Programme.
• The processor supports applications in 5G, automotive, defence and IoT.
• India consumes about 20% of the world’s microprocessors.

What Comes After DHRUV64

DHRUV64 joins a growing family of India-developed processors, including SHAKTI from IIT Madras, AJIT from IIT Bombay, VIKRAM engineered for space applications, and THEJAS64 for industrial automation. Building on this momentum, C-DAC is working on next-generation RISC-V based system-on-chips, Dhanush and Dhanush+, aimed at expanding indigenous options for both strategic and commercial use across sectors.