UK PM Keir Starmer has expressed strong support for India’s bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
About United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
Details
Establishment
By the UN Charter in 1945 as one of the six principal organs of the United Nations.
Other UN Organs
General Assembly, Trusteeship Council, Economic and Social Council, International Court of Justice, Secretariat
Primary Responsibility
Maintaining international peace and security
Headquarters
New York City, USA
Members
15 members: 5 permanent members (US, UK, Russia, China, France) and 10 non-permanent members (elected for two-year terms)
Permanent Members
US, UK, Russia, China, France
Non-permanent Members
10 elected members; require two-thirds majority in the General Assembly to be elected
Presidency Rotation
Every month among the 15 members
Voting and Veto Power
Permanent members have veto power; non-permanent members have no veto but resolutions require at least 7 non-permanent members’ votes for approval, even with unanimous permanent support
India’s Participation
India has been elected as a non-permanent member of the UNSC eight times: 1950-51, 1967-68, 1972-73, 1977-78, 1984-85, 1991-92, 2011-12, 2021-22
Responsibilities & Powers
Mediation, dispatching UN missions, appointing envoys, issuing ceasefire directives, peacekeeping, sanctions, arms embargo, and issuing binding resolutions
UNSC Reforms Process
Stage 1: Requires a two-thirds majority (128 votes) in the General Assembly (193 member states) for approval. Stage 2: Amended Charter must be ratified by at least two-thirds of member states, including all five permanent members, who may exercise veto power. Their national parliaments also influence the ratification process.
PYQ:
[2009] The Security Council of UN consists of 5 permanent members, and the remaining 10 members are elected by the General Assembly for a term of:
(a) 1 year
(b) 2 years
(c) 3 years
(d) 5 years
[2015] Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
In recent years, maritime East Asia has witnessed escalating power struggles, with China claiming Japan-controlled Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands in the East China Sea, sparking repeated tensions.
What are the current geopolitical tensions in the East and South China Seas?
East China Sea: The main issue revolves around the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands, claimed by both China and Japan.
Tensions have escalated through incidents like the arrest of a Chinese fishing boat captain and Japan’s nationalization of the islands in 2012. The area also witnesses Chinese Coast Guard incursions.
South China Sea: China’s claims over most of the region, backed by aggressive actions such as the creation of artificial islands and naval exercises, have escalated tensions with Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
China’s “Nine-Dash Line” claims have been rejected by international tribunals, but Beijing continues to push these claims.
USA Context: The U.S. maintains security alliances with Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, providing military backing. Joint exercises and increased cooperation between these allies.
The formation of the “Squad” (US, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines) highlights the coordination to counterbalance China’s influence.
How do climate change and environmental factors impact storm patterns in these regions?
Storm Patterns and Rising Seas: The region is highly vulnerable to extreme weather events, including typhoons, which are becoming more intense and frequent due to climate change.
Rising sea levels and changing storm patterns threaten coastal communities, military installations, and infrastructure.
Erosion of Islands: The creation of artificial islands by China is accelerating coastal erosion and destroying coral reefs, which are critical to local marine ecosystems.
What are the implications of military activities by regional powers in the East and South China Seas?
Growing Militarization: China has rapidly expanded its military presence, including the construction of airstrips, ports, and other defense infrastructure.
The Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militias have been active in harassing the vessels of other claimant states, particularly in the South China Sea.
Challenge the US Navy: China’s military activities are seen as part of its broader strategy to challenge U.S. naval supremacy in the Indo-Pacific. This strategy also includes controlling vital sea lanes, undersea cables, and energy reserves.
How are local communities and economies affected?
Economic Disruption: China’s actions in the South China Sea, particularly around disputed fishing areas, have impacted local economies dependent on fishing.
Maritime Trade: The region is home to critical sea lanes through which a significant portion of global trade, including energy supplies, passes. Any conflict or blockade in these waters would have severe global economic ramifications.
Impact on Tourism: The increasing militarization and tension also negatively impact tourism in coastal areas.
Way forward:
Strengthening Maritime Partnerships: India should enhance its strategic maritime partnerships in the Indo-Pacific through forums like the Quad (India, U.S., Japan, and Australia) and ASEAN to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Economic and Infrastructure Diplomacy: India can leverage initiatives like SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and enhance its economic presence by investing in infrastructure, connectivity, and capacity-building projects in Southeast Asian countries.
Mains PYQ:
Q South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present context. Comment. (UPSC IAS/2016)
Q). ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. (UPSC CSE 2017) Q). With respect to the South China Sea, maritime territorial disputes and rising tension affaire the need for safeguarding maritime security to ensure freedom of navigation and every flight throughout the region. In this context, discuss the bilateral issues between India and China. (UPSC CSE 2014) Q). The time has come for India and Japan to build a strong contemporary relationship, one involving global and strategic partnership that will have a great significance for Asia and the world as a whole. Comment. (UPSC CSE 2019) Q). Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentor’s Comment: China views its strength and diplomacy in critical minerals strategically, emphasizing its dominance and leveraging its resources as a political tool. China controls approximately 60% of global rare earth production and 80% of processing, positioning itself as a critical player in the mineral supply chain. This dominance allows China to exert significant influence over global markets. China perceives U.S.-led initiatives to diversify critical mineral supply chains as a containment strategy.
On August 15, 2024, China announced restrictions on antimony exports effective September 15, citing national security concerns. In today’s editorial, we will observe how China aims to remind the West of its dependency on Chinese minerals, particularly for high-tech applications.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
On August 15, 2024, China announced it would restrict the export of antimony, a key mineral used in military equipment like missiles and ammunition.
The Chinese government cited national security as the reason for this decision. This follows earlier curbs on gallium and germanium.
China’s Dominance in Critical Minerals
• China is a key player in the critical minerals market, controlling 60% of rare earth production and 80% of processing globally. • China dominates all supply chain segments, including mining, extraction, refining, and processing.
How do these export controls reflect China’s response to geopolitical tensions?
Response to U.S. Actions: China’s recent export controls are seen as retaliatory measures against U.S. restrictions on Chinese technology and trade practices. This reflects a broader geopolitical struggle between the two nations.
Strategic Leverage: By controlling the supply, China is asserting its influence and demonstrating its willingness to use economic tools as leverage in geopolitical conflicts.
Japan Precedent: The 2010 halt of rare earth exports to Japan following a maritime incident illustrates China’s readiness to employ export controls as a means of exerting pressure during diplomatic disputes.
Regional Security Dynamics: China’s export restrictions highlight the vulnerabilities of countries like the U.S., EU, India, and Japan, which rely heavily on Chinese minerals for their defense and technology sectors, prompting these nations to reconsider their supply chain dependencies.
What was the objective behind this move?
Military Assertiveness: Alongside economic measures, China has increased military drills and assertive posturing in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly concerning Taiwan.
This dual approach of economic control and military readiness signals a comprehensive strategy to counter perceived threats from the U.S. and its allies.
Multipolarity Advocacy: China’s actions are part of a broader narrative promoting a multipolar world order that challenges U.S. hegemony.
By using export controls strategically, China aims to reinforce its position as a dominant power in global affairs while advocating for regional cooperation free from external interference.
How China is turning its Foreign Policy Posture?
Future Ambitions: According to China’s Natural Resource Minister Wang Guanghua, China plans to enhance its mineral exploration and capacity over the next five years, signaling ongoing ambitions to consolidate its resource dominance.
Strategic Dependency Reminder: Restricting access to strategic resources is a traditional tactic in statecraft, similar to the U.S. oil embargo against Japan in 1940.
Weaponization of Resources: China has transitioned from politicizing critical minerals to weaponizing them, using export controls as a political tool against the West.
Targeting Dual-Use Applications: Critical minerals used in military applications, such as those needed for submarines and fighter jets, are prioritized in China’s export controls.
Shift from Cooperation to Coercion: The approach has shifted from cooperative strategies to aggressive and coercive tactics, indicating that export restrictions will likely increase as relations with the West deteriorate.
India’s Vulnerability due to dependence on China
Strategic Dependence: India relies heavily on imports of critical minerals like lithium, nickel, cobalt, and copper from China, resulting in high costs.
The U.S. is actively seeking to reduce its dependence on Chinese minerals and is exploring domestic production options.
Call to Action: The situation serves as a wake-up call for Indian policymakers to take proactive measures, such as forming partnerships with allied countries and investing in alternative supply chains to reduce dependency on China.
Conclusion: The ongoing geopolitical tensions suggest that China may continue to leverage its control over critical minerals as a tool for both economic gain and political influence, potentially escalating conflicts with Western powers if tensions persist.
September 26 is recognized on the United Nations calendar as the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.
What is the current state of global nuclear disarmament efforts?
Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW): The TPNW, in force since 2021, is the first legally binding international agreement that comprehensively bans nuclear weapons. As of July 2024, it has 70 states parties and 27 signatories yet to ratify, covering nearly 50% of the world’s states.
Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT): The NPT, in effect since 1970, remains the foundational treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and promoting eventual disarmament. However, it has been criticized for its limited focus on actual disarmament.
Persistent Objectors: Nuclear-armed states (such as the U.S., Russia, China, India, and Pakistan) and their allies have consistently opposed the TPNW, refusing to be bound by its provisions.
What are the key obstacles hindering further nuclear disarmament?
Nuclear Deterrence Doctrine: The belief in nuclear deterrence — the idea that possessing nuclear weapons prevents attacks — is a central justification for continued nuclear armament.
Nuclear-Weapon States’ Resistance: The nuclear-armed states, including the U.S., Russia, China, India, and others, continue to view nuclear weapons as essential to their security strategies, despite claims of disarmament commitments under the NPT.
Geopolitical Conflicts: Ongoing geopolitical tensions, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, China’s rising military power, North Korea’s nuclear tests, and Iran’s uranium enrichment, have exacerbated the global nuclear threat, further impeding disarmament efforts.
Lack of Enforcement Mechanisms: The TPNW, while normatively important, lacks robust enforcement mechanisms. It depends on the voluntary commitment of states, and nuclear possessors do not face direct penalties for non-compliance.
What steps can be taken to reinvigorate the nuclear disarmament agenda? (Way forward)
Strengthening International Advocacy: Civil society, former political leaders (including NATO officials), and international organizations should continue advocating for disarmament and urging nuclear-armed states and their allies to reconsider their stance. Public pressure could create the political will for further disarmament steps.
Engagement of Non-Nuclear States: States that are non-nuclear but support the TPNW should work to expand the treaty’s footprint, encouraging more countries to ratify and actively participate in its framework. This could help isolate nuclear possessors diplomatically and morally.
Building Confidence through Arms Control Treaties: Reviving arms control agreements, such as the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and the New START treaty, would be important milestones in reducing nuclear risks.
About CTBT:
Complete Ban on Nuclear Testing: The CTBT prohibits all forms of nuclear explosions—whether for military or civilian purposes—across all environments, including underground, atmospheric, and underwater.
Robust Verification Mechanism: The treaty includes an International Monitoring System (IMS) of over 300 monitoring stations worldwide, capable of detecting nuclear tests, as well as provisions for on-site inspections to ensure compliance with the treaty’s terms.
India is not a signatory to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).
Diplomatic Pressure and Dialogue: Encouraging diplomatic dialogue, especially among the major nuclear powers, could help mitigate tensions and create pathways to gradual disarmament. Leaders must explore confidence-building measures, transparency, and mutual reductions in nuclear arsenals.
India has officially joined the US-led Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN), a global initiative to strengthen cooperation in securing critical mineral supply chains.
What is the Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN)?
The MSFN is an initiative emerging from the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), established by the US in 2022.
It aims to promote cooperation, information exchange, and co-financing among countries.
It brings together development finance institutions (DFIs) and export credit agencies (ECAs) from partner nations to facilitate investments in critical mineral supply chains.
It seeks to meet the increasing global demand for critical minerals and reduce dependence on dominant suppliers like China.
AboutMinerals Security Partnership (MSP):
Details
Established
2022, by the United States
Objective
To ensure a stable, diversified, and secure supply of critical minerals essential for the global clean energy transition.
Members
13 countries and the European Commission, including: United States, Australia, Canada, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Norway, Sweden, and the European Union.
Focus Areas
• Securing critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements.
• Reducing dependency on dominant suppliers like China.
• Promoting cooperation between development finance institutions (DFIs) and export credit agencies (ECAs) to finance critical mineral projects.
Significance for India
• India joined in June 2023, aiming to secure minerals for its growing electric vehicle (EV) and electronics sectors.
• India seeks to diversify its supply sources from Argentina, Chile, Australia, and Africa.
Significance of Critical Minerals
Critical minerals are elements essential for the manufacturing of renewable energy technologies, such as electric vehicle (EV) batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, and semiconductors.
Some of the most important critical minerals include:
Lithium: Essential for EV batteries.
Cobalt: Used in batteries and electronics.
Nickel: Key for battery manufacturing.
Rare earth elements (REEs): Used in semiconductors, high-tech electronics, and military applications.
The global demand for these minerals is rapidly rising as countries aim to shift away from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
China is currently the world leader in both the mining and processing of many of these critical minerals, creating concerns about the concentration and resilience of supply chains.
Securing a reliable, diversified supply of critical minerals is essential for nations looking to achieve their clean energy goals and ensure economic stability in high-tech sectors.
PYQ:
[2012] Recently, there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called ‘rare earth metals’. Why?
China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export.
Other than China, Australia, Canada and Chile, these elements are not found in any country.
Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is a growing demand for these elements.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
The Wall Street Journal has highlighted controversies surrounding the Neom Megacity Project, a key project of Saudi Arabia and world’s largest construction real-estate project.
AboutNeom Megacity Project:
Details
Location
Northwestern Tabuk Province, Saudi Arabia, along the Red Sea
Launched
2017 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
Part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Objective
To diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil.
Size
26,500 sq km
Initially $500 billion, now estimated at $1.5 trillion
Completion Year
Expected by 2039
Key Projects
The Line: 170-km long linear city for 9 million residents
Oxagon: Octagonal industrial city
Trojena: Mountain resort for 2029 Asian Winter Games
Magna: Luxury coastal city
Sindalah: Luxury island, opening in 2024
Technological Focus
Renewable energy (solar, wind)
AI and robotics
Green hydrogen production
Environmental Goals
Powered by 95% renewable energy
Focus on sustainable development
Controversies surrounding the Project:
Displacement of Indigenous Tribes: The Huwaitat tribe has been forcibly displaced, leading to human rights concerns.
Slow Progress: Construction is behind schedule, with only 1.4 km of The Line expected to be completed by 2030.
Workplace Misconduct: Reports of toxic culture and unethical leadership, including neglect of worker safety.
Surveillance Concerns: Critics worry about the project’s use of real-time monitoring, raising privacy concerns.
Cost Overruns: The project’s budget has ballooned from $500 billion to $1.5 trillion, leading to scaled-down plans.
Q) “The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (UPSC CSE 2021)
Q) Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2020)
Q) The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (UPSC CSE 2018)
Mentor’s Comment: The Galwan Valley clash in June 2020 marked a significant deterioration in India-China relations, leading to profound shifts in the geopolitical and strategic calculus of both nations. The confrontation, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and at least 4 Chinese soldiers, was the deadliest since the 1962 India-China war.
The future of economic cooperation between India and China will largely depend on how both nations navigate their geopolitical tensions and mutual dependencies. While there are opportunities for collaboration through investment and trade, significant barriers remain due to unresolved border disputes and India’s strategic shift towards self-reliance. As both countries reassess their positions in a rapidly changing global landscape, their economic relationship will likely continue to be characterized by cautious engagement rather than robust cooperation.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
On September 12, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar noted that approximately 75% of disengagement issues along the border have been resolved, yet emphasized the ongoing challenge of militarization at the border.
Further, during the BRICS NSA meeting in St. Petersburg, both sides agreed to expedite efforts for complete disengagement in the remaining areas.
What are the implications of China’s border policies on India-China relations?
Escalation of Tensions: China’s aggressive border policies, particularly since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, have led to heightened militarization along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), creating an environment of distrust and hostility between the two nations.
Strategic Reassessment: The violent confrontations have prompted India to reassess its approach towards China, moving from a stance of cautious engagement to one of strategic vigilance and preparedness for potential conflict. This includes a call for greater military readiness and strengthening alliances, such as with the Quad.
Impact on Bilateral Relations: Chinese attempts to compartmentalize the border dispute from broader bilateral ties are increasingly seen as untenable by India.
The Indian government insists that progress in overall relations is contingent upon resolving border issues.
Domestic Sentiment and Policy Changes: The public’s perception of China has deteriorated sharply following military confrontations, leading to calls for boycotting Chinese products and a general hardening of attitudes towards Beijing.
This shift in sentiment is influencing India’s foreign policy, pushing for a more adversarial stance.
Geopolitical Dynamics: China’s assertive policies in South Asia, including its close ties with Pakistan and investment initiatives through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), have intensified competition with India for regional influence.
This rivalry complicates diplomatic efforts and fosters a security dilemma.
What role does the QUAD play in India’s new military strategy?
•Counterbalancing China: The Quad is a platform for India to collaborate with the United States, Japan, and Australia to counter China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific. This alignment helps India enhance its military capabilities and strategic posture against potential threats from China. •Enhanced Defense Cooperation: Quad Group has facilitated joint military exercises, like Malabar naval exercises, which strengthen interoperability, enhancing India’s naval capabilities and readiness to respond to regional threats.Participation in the Quad allows India to extend beyond military cooperation to global challenges such as climate change and public health. •Capacity Building and Strategic Autonomy: India leverages the Quad to build its defense capabilities through technology sharing and joint initiatives focused on maritime security, cyber defense, and humanitarian assistance.India seeks to maintain its strategic autonomy by not fully aligning itself with U.S. This approach allows India to navigate its complex relationships with both China and other regional players without compromising its interests. •Economic Opportunities: The Quad enhances India’s attractiveness as an investment destination, particularly post-COVID-19, by promoting economic cooperation among member states. For Example, vaccine distribution highlights India’s role as a leader in regional health security.
How should India respond to China’s demands for normalization of relations?
Conditional Normalization: India should continue to insist on restoring the status quo ante along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) as a prerequisite for any significant diplomatic engagement with China.
Diplomatic Engagement: India should engage in diplomatic discussions with China at various levels, including military-to-military talks and high-level political exchanges, to address mutual concerns and build confidence.
Balanced Approach to FDI: While maintaining security concerns, India could selectively ease restrictions on Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) that align with its economic interests. This approach could facilitate economic ties while ensuring that strategic sectors remain protected.
Strengthening Alliances: India should enhance collective security through QUAD and counterbalance China’s regional influence. This multilateral approach can give India greater leverage in its dealings with China.
What is the future of economic cooperation given the current geopolitical climate? (Way Forward)
The future of economic cooperation will largely depend on how both nations navigate their geopolitical tensions and mutual dependencies.
The “China plus one” strategy presents significant opportunities for India’s economic growth, particularly as global companies seek to diversify their supply chains away from China.
According to a Nomura report, India’s exports could nearly double from $431 billion in 2023 to $835 billion by 2030, driven by demand from firms relocating to India as they seek alternatives to China.
While there are opportunities for collaboration through investment and trade, significant barriers remain due to unresolved border disputes and India’s strategic shift towards self-reliance.
The recent summit of the Quad leaders resulted in several significant initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation among the member countries—India, the United States, Australia, and Japan.
What are the initiatives taken by QUAD?
Quad Cancer Moonshot: This initiative focuses on combating cervical cancer, with India committing $10 million for screening efforts. The Serum Institute of India and Gavi aim to provide up to 40 million vaccines for the region, pending regulatory approvals.
Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission: Scheduled for 2025, this mission aims to enhance interoperability and maritime safety among Quad nations.
Logistics Network Pilot Project: This project will facilitate the sharing of airlift capacity among Quad countries to support disaster response efforts across the region.
Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI): This initiative focuses on training Quad partners to monitor and secure their waters, enforce laws, and deter unlawful behavior. India is set to host the first MAITRI workshop in 2025.
Maritime Legal Dialogue: A new dialogue has been launched to uphold a rules-based order in maritime operations, condemning aggressive actions, particularly those related to China.
What is MAITRI?
MAITRI, or Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific, is a program designed to enhance the maritime capabilities of Quad partners.
Its implications include:
Capacity Building: By training personnel from partner nations, MAITRI aims to improve their ability to monitor and secure their maritime territories effectively.
Enhanced Cooperation: The initiative fosters closer collaboration among Quad countries in maritime security, which is crucial given rising tensions in regions like the South China Sea.
Regional Stability: By equipping nations with better tools and knowledge to enforce maritime laws and deter unlawful activities, MAITRI contributes to greater stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
What is the effectiveness of QUAD in recent times?
Condemnation of Aggression: The Quad has taken a strong stance against aggression in the East and South China Seas, signaling unity among member states regarding regional security concerns.
Support for Ukraine: The leaders expressed deep concern over the war in Ukraine and reiterated their commitment to international law, showcasing a collective approach to global issues beyond regional security.
Expanded Fellowship Programs: The Quad fellowship program has been expanded to include additional scholarships for STEM education, reflecting a commitment to educational collaboration and capacity building in science and technology.
Focus on Health Initiatives: The launch of the Quad Cancer Moonshot demonstrates a proactive approach towards public health challenges, particularly in addressing cervical cancer through international cooperation.
Way forward:
Strengthen Maritime Security Collaboration: Quad nations should deepen cooperation through initiatives like MAITRI and the Quad-at-Sea mission to enhance maritime security, law enforcement, and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific, ensuring stability amidst regional tensions.
Expand Multilateral Health and Development Programs: Building on the success of initiatives like the Quad Cancer Moonshot, the Quad should further invest in collaborative healthcare, disaster response, and capacity-building projects to address pressing global challenges and strengthen resilience across member states.
Mains PYQ:
Q Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)
India and the US have entered into an agreement to establish a semiconductor fabrication plant aimed at producing chips for national security, next-generation telecommunications, and green energy applications.
Key Features of the Semiconductor Fabrication Plant
The semiconductor fab will focus on advanced sensing, communication, and power electronics.
The India Semiconductor Mission will support the project and involves a strategic partnership between Bharat Semi, 3rdiTech, and the US Space Force.
The plant will manufacture infrared, gallium nitride, and silicon carbide semiconductors, critical components for national security and commercial sectors.
Shakti Partnership
The fab, titled “Shakti” (meaning power), is the first-ever technology partnership between Indian businesses and the US Space Force, and the first of its kind in the Quad, a strategic forum comprising India, the US, Japan, and Australia.
The project will focus on three key areas essential for modern warfare:
Advanced sensing
Advanced communications
High-voltage power electronics
These areas also have significant applications in commercial sectors such as railways, telecom infrastructure, data centers, and green energy.
AboutIndia’s Semiconductor Mission (ISM):
Details
Launch Year
2021
Financial Outlay
₹76,000 crore under the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY)
Objective
• Develop a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem in India
• Reduce reliance on imports
• Position India as a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing
Core Focus
Financial support for investments in:
– Semiconductor fabs
– Display fabs
– Semiconductor design
– Assembly, Testing, Marking, and Packaging (ATMP) facilities
Components of ISM
Scheme for Semiconductor Fabs
• Provides fiscal support for setting up semiconductor wafer fabrication (fabs) facilities
• Aims to attract large investments for semiconductor fabs in India
Scheme for Display Fabs
• Offers fiscal support for setting up TFT LCD/AMOLED display fabs
• Encourages investments in display fabrication technologies
Scheme for Compound Semiconductors
• Provides 30% capital expenditure support for setting up Compound Semiconductors, Silicon Photonics, Sensors, and ATMP/OSAT facilities
Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme
• Offers financial incentives and design infrastructure support for semiconductor design
Significance of Next-Generation Telecom
Next-gen telecom (5G and beyond) will revolutionize industries with high-speed internet, IoT, AI, and smart infrastructure.
It is crucial for national security, economic competitiveness, and advancing green energy and sustainable development.
India’s adoption of 5G will drive innovation across sectors, promoting technological self-reliance and global leadership in telecommunications.
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