Daily Current Affairs 10 July 2026 – IAS Current Affairs

Current Affairs 10 July 2026 focuses on the Prelims-Mains perspective. Major events are :

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Prambanan Temple Heritage Explained

Source: Indian Express
GS I: Indian Culture – Architecture from ancient to modern times, GS II: Bilateral Relations

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Overview

1. News in Brief
2. Prambanan Temple
3. Historical Background: Rise of the Sanjaya Dynasty
4. Architecture of the Prambanan Temple
5. Influence of Indian Temple Architecture

Why in the News?

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Yogyakarta, Indonesia (2026), India announced support for the restoration of the Prambanan Temple Complex.

News in Brief

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• Prambanan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia, renowned for its historical and architectural significance.
• The restoration initiative strengthens India–Indonesia cooperation in heritage conservation and cultural preservation.
• The move highlights the shared Hindu-Buddhist civilizational heritage and centuries-old cultural ties between India and Southeast Asia.

Prambanan Temple

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• Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and among the finest examples of Hindu temple architecture outside India.
• It was built during the 9th century CE in Central Java under the Sanjaya Dynasty of the Mataram Kingdom.
• The temple is dedicated primarily to the Trimurti:
  • Lord Shiva
  • Lord Vishnu
  • Lord Brahma
• Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1991).

Location of Prambanan

• Located in Central Java, Indonesia.
• Near Yogyakarta City.
• Close to Mount Merapi, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes.
• Situated on the island of Java.

Historical Background: Rise of the Sanjaya Dynasty

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• The Sanjaya Dynasty ruled the Mataram Kingdom in Central Java during the 8th–9th centuries CE.
• Played a significant role in the revival and expansion of Hinduism in the region.
• The dynasty was a strong patron of Shaivism, promoting the worship of Lord Shiva alongside the growth of Hindu religious traditions, temple architecture, and Sanskrit-based learning.
• The rulers encouraged the construction of monumental temples as symbols of royal authority and religious devotion.
• Sanskrit inscriptions and Hindu iconography found in the region reflect the deep cultural and religious influence of India on Java during this period.
• King Rakai Pikatan (reigned c. 840–856 CE) is widely credited with commissioning the Prambanan Temple Complex around 850 CE.
• The temple stands as one of the greatest architectural achievements of the Sanjaya Dynasty and represents the political and cultural resurgence of Hinduism in Central Java.

Purpose Behind the Construction of Prambanan

• To mark the revival of Hindu rule in Central Java.
• Symbolized royal authority, political legitimacy, and the prosperity of the Mataram Kingdom.
• Intended to rival the nearby Borobudur Buddhist monument, highlighting the prominence of Hinduism.
• Reflected the shared cultural and civilizational links between India and Southeast Asia through Sanskrit, Hindu mythology, and temple traditions.

Architecture of the Prambanan Temple

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Temple Layout

• The Prambanan Temple Complex was originally designed as a grand sacred complex consisting of around 240 temples arranged in concentric square enclosures based on Hindu cosmological principles.
• The complex comprises:
  • Three main temples dedicated to the Hindu Trimurti.
    • Shiva Temple: The tallest and largest temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is the principal shrine of the complex.
    • Vishnu Temple: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe.
    • Brahma Temple: Dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator in Hindu mythology.
  • Three Vahana (vehicle) temples facing the main shrines.
    • Nandi Temple – the sacred bull of Lord Shiva.
    • Garuda Temple – the celestial eagle and vehicle of Lord Vishnu.
    • Hamsa Temple –  the vehicle of Lord Brahma.
  • Guardian (Apit) temples protecting the sacred complex.
  • Perwara (companion) temples surrounding the central shrines, used for worship and religious activities.
  • Several smaller shrines and ancillary structures completing the temple layout.
• The symmetrical arrangement represents Mount Meru, the mythical abode of the Hindu gods.

Architectural Features

• Towering Shikhara-style spires rising vertically towards the sky.
• Intricately carved stone reliefs depicting Hindu epics, especially the Ramayana.
• A highly symmetrical layout based on geometric precision.
• Mandala-based planning, reflecting Hindu concepts of the cosmos.
• Rich sculptures of Hindu deities, celestial beings, guardians, and mythological figures.
• Ornamental carvings displaying exceptional craftsmanship and artistic excellence.

Decline and Rediscovery

• Prambanan declined due to the shift of the Mataram capital, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and centuries of neglect.
• It was later rediscovered through Javanese records, documented by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, and restored by the Dutch and subsequently Indonesia.

Influence of Indian Temple Architecture

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• Prambanan reflects the profound influence of Indian civilization on Southeast Asia while  incorporating distinctive Javanese architectural elements, making it a unique example of cultural synthesis.
• Its Indian influences include:
  • Sanskrit inscriptions and Hindu religious texts.
  • Depictions of Hindu mythology
  • Shaiva religious traditions and temple rituals.
  • Temple symbolism based on Hindu cosmology and sacred geometry.
• A notable feature is its Ramayana relief panels carved on the walls of the Shiva and Brahma temples, depicting scenes such as Rama’s exile, Sita’s abduction, Hanuman’s journey to Lanka, and Rama’s victory over Ravana.
  • These carvings highlight the enduring influence of Indian epics on Javanese culture.
  • The tradition continues today through the Ramayana Ballet, performed near the temple, symbolizing the shared cultural heritage of India and Indonesia.

Significance of Prambanan for India

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• Cultural Diplomacy– Strengthens India–Indonesia relations by reinforcing shared civilizational and cultural heritage.
• Heritage Conservation– Showcases India’s archaeological expertise and commitment to preserving global cultural heritage.
• Soft Power– Enhances India’s global image through peaceful cultural outreach and civilizational diplomacy.
• Tourism– Promotes Buddhist-Hindu heritage tourism and greater people-to-people exchanges.
• Strategic Partnership– Deepens the India–Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership by adding a cultural dimension to Indo-Pacific cooperation.

Way Forward

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• Expand India–Indonesia archaeological cooperation.
• Promote UNESCO heritage conservation.
• Use digital documentation and 3D restoration technologies.
• Strengthen cultural exchanges.
• Encourage academic research on shared heritage.
• Promote responsible heritage tourism.

Key Takeaways

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UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

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Consider the following pairs:

Temple	Religion
Prambanan	Hindu
Borobudur	Buddhist
Angkor Wat	Originally Hindu

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

A. 1, 2 and 3
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 only
D. 3 only

Answer: A

Mains Practice Question

Q. Cultural diplomacy has emerged as an important pillar of India’s foreign policy. Discuss its significance in strengthening bilateral relations with neighbouring and Southeast Asian countries. (15 Marks)

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Repatriation Of Indian Antiquities From Australia

Source: Indian Express
GS I: Indian Art & Culture, Heritage and Conservation

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Overview

1. News in Brief
2. Antiquities Being Returned to India
3. India’s Reciprocal Repatriation
4. India’s Efforts to Recover Stolen Antiquities
5. Importance of Repatriation for India

Why in the News?

India and Australia have agreed to voluntarily repatriate cultural heritage objects held in each other’s museums.

News in Brief

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• The repatriation was announced during the India–Australia Annual Summit 2026,
• The agreement reflects mutual respect for cultural heritage and Indigenous rights.
• The initiative strengthens cultural diplomacy, ethical museum practices, heritage conservation, and bilateral cooperation between India and Australia.

Antiquities Being Returned to India

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• Stone Idol of Nandi
  • Sacred bull and vehicle (Vahana) of Lord Shiva.
  • Belongs to the 11th–12th century CE.
  • Originated from Sri Kasisviswanathaswamy Temple, Kollumangudi, Thiruvarur district, Tamil Nadu.
  • Represents the rich sculptural tradition of Chola Shaivism.
• Metal Trident with Goddess Bhadrakali
  • Dates to the 11th century CE.
  • Crafted in the South Indian temple metal tradition.
  • Originated from Sri Kasisviswanathaswamy Temple, Kollumangudi.
  • Used as a ritual object in temple worship.
• Stone Idol of Six-Headed Kartikeya
  • Dates to the 12th century CE.
  • Represents Lord Kartikeya with six faces (Shanmukha).
  • Originated from Naganathaswamy Temple, Manambadi village, Thanjavur district.
  • Exemplifies the excellence of Chola stone sculpture.

Reason for Repatriation

• Investigations by the Tamil Nadu Idol Wing CID established that the antiquities had been illegally removed from temples and trafficked abroad.
• Their provenance was scientifically verified, following which Australian museums voluntarily agreed to return them, demonstrating international cooperation in combating the illicit trafficking of cultural property.

India’s Reciprocal Repatriation

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• India has agreed to return:
  • The ancestral remains of an Australian First Nations ancestor.
  • The relic had been preserved in the Government Museum, Chennai since around 1935 as part of an anthropological collection.
  • It will be returned unconditionally to its Traditional Custodians.
• This reflects respect for Indigenous communities and ethical museum practices.

India’s Efforts to Recover Stolen Antiquities

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• India has strengthened the recovery of stolen cultural heritage through a multi-agency and diplomatic approach:
  • Ministry of Culture- Coordinates policies and international efforts for the restitution of antiquities.
  • Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)- Maintains the national antiquities database, verifies provenance, and assists in repatriation.
  • Tamil Nadu Idol Wing CID- Investigates idol theft, traces smuggled artefacts, and works with international agencies.
  • International Cooperation- Collaborates with Interpol, foreign governments, museums, and law enforcement agencies to track and recover stolen artefacts.
  • Diplomatic Engagement- Uses bilateral agreements and cultural diplomacy to facilitate the voluntary return of antiquities.
  • Digital Documentation- Develops digital inventories and records of heritage objects to aid identification and provenance verification.

Major Countries from Which India Has Recovered Antiquities

• India has successfully repatriated stolen idols and antiquities from several countries, including:
  • United States
  • Australia
  • United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • Singapore

Importance of Repatriation for India

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• Heritage Conservation
  • Restores India’s stolen cultural and religious heritage.
  • Preserves historically significant temple artefacts.
  • Helps curb the illegal trafficking of antiquities.
• Cultural Diplomacy
  • Strengthens India–Australia bilateral relations.
  • Builds mutual trust through cooperation in heritage protection.
  • Promotes ethical museum practices and responsible stewardship of cultural property.
• Enhancing India’s Soft Power
  • Showcases India’s rich civilizational and artistic heritage globally.
  • Reinforces India’s image as a guardian of cultural heritage.
  • Promotes awareness of India’s historical and cultural legacy.
• Strengthening the Rule of Law
  • Demonstrates effective international cooperation against heritage crimes.
  • Supports the recovery of illegally exported cultural property.
  • Encourages compliance with international conventions on cultural heritage.
• Respect for Indigenous Rights
  • Recognizes the cultural and ancestral rights of Indigenous communities.
  • Promotes the dignified return of ancestral human remains.
  • Reflects global commitment to restorative justice and ethical heritage management.

Key Takeaways

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UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

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Consider the following statements regarding the antiquities recently repatriated from Australia:

1. The returned antiquities belong to the Chola period.
2. One of the returned antiquities originated from the Naganathaswamy Temple in Thanjavur district. 
3. The Nandi sculpture originated from a temple in Thiruvarur district.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Mains Practice Question

Q. “The repatriation of cultural artefacts is essential for preserving India’s civilizational heritage.” Discuss with suitable examples. (10 Marks, 150 Words)

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India Australia Annual Summit

Source: Indian Express
GS II: India and its Neighborhood & Bilateral Relations

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Overview

1. News in Brief
2. Key Outcomes of the India–Australia Summit
3. Challenges in India–Australia Relations
4. Way Forward

Why in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Australia for the 3rd India–Australia Annual Summit to strengthen the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

News in Brief

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• Both countries signed agreements covering defence, maritime security, trade, civil nuclear cooperation, critical minerals, cyber security and emerging technologies.
• The summit focused on enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific through economic, strategic and technological partnerships.
• The outcomes reflect the deepening India–Australia partnership as two major democratic powers committed to a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

Key Outcomes of the India–Australia Summit

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Fast-tracking the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA)

• India and Australia agreed to expedite negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), envisaged as a balanced and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
• The agreement aims to expand cooperation in trade in goods and services, investment, digital commerce, mobility of skilled professionals, and resilient supply chains, while addressing non-tariff barriers.
• Significance
  • Expands bilateral trade and market access.
  • Promotes investment and business confidence.
  • Diversifies and strengthens supply chains.
  • Builds upon the gains achieved under the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA).

Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT)

• Both countries agreed to fast-track negotiations for a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) to create a predictable and secure investment environment.
• Significance
  • Protects investments in both countries.
  • Improves investor confidence through legal safeguards.
  • Provides a transparent framework for investment dispute resolution.
  • Encourages long-term investments in strategic sectors.

Operationalization of the Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement

• The administrative arrangements required to operationalize the 2014 Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement were finalized, paving the way for Australian uranium exports to India for peaceful purposes.
• Significance
  • Ensures a reliable supply of uranium for India’s nuclear power programme.
  • Supports clean and low-carbon energy generation.
  • Strengthens India’s long-term energy security.
  • Contributes to India’s climate and Net Zero goals.

Defence and Security Cooperation

• The leaders adopted a Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation to deepen strategic and military collaboration.
• Key Areas
  • Maritime security and naval cooperation.
  • Defence industrial and innovation partnerships.
  • Joint military exercises and interoperability.
  • Shipbuilding, repair and maintenance.
  • Intelligence sharing and capacity building.
• Significance
  • Enhances defence preparedness.
  • Strengthens maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Promotes indigenous defence manufacturing and technology cooperation.

India–Australia Defence Innovation Corridor

• Both countries agreed to establish a Defence Innovation Corridor linking defence startups, industries, research institutions and technology developers.
• Significance
  • Encourages defence innovation and R&D.
  • Promotes co-development and co-production of advanced defence technologies.
  • Supports India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence manufacturing.

Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap

• A dedicated roadmap was launched to enhance cooperation in ensuring a safe and secure Indo-Pacific maritime region.
• Focus Areas
  • Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA).
  • Freedom of navigation.
  • Anti-piracy operations.
  • Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).
    Search and Rescue (SAR).
• Significance
  • Protects critical sea lanes of communication.
  • Improves coordinated responses to maritime challenges.
  • Reinforces a rules-based maritime order.

Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains

• The two countries launched a new partnership in cyber security, critical technologies and resilient supply chains.
• Key Areas
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI).
  • Quantum technologies.
  • Semiconductor ecosystem.
  • Cyber security.
  • Trusted supply chains.
• Significance
  • Enhances technological resilience.
  • Reduces dependence on single-country supply chains.
  • Promotes secure and trusted technology ecosystems.

Critical Minerals Cooperation

• Australia agreed to deepen cooperation with India in securing critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and rare earth elements.
• Significance
  • Supports electric vehicle and battery manufacturing.
  • Strengthens renewable energy and electronics sectors.
  • Improves supply security for strategic industries.

 Renewable Energy Cooperation

• Both countries agreed to establish a Rooftop Solar Training Academy in Gujarat to support India’s clean energy transition.
• Objectives
  • Develop skilled manpower for the solar sector.
  • Build technical capacity among youth and women.
  • Support the implementation of the PM Surya Ghar Yojana.
  • Promote greater adoption of rooftop solar energy.
• Significance
  • Expands India’s green workforce.
  • Accelerates renewable energy deployment.
  • Creates employment in the clean energy sector.

Indo-Pacific Vision

• India and Australia reaffirmed their commitment to:
  • Promote a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
  • Uphold a rules-based international order.
  • Ensure freedom of navigation and overflight.
  • Resolve disputes peacefully through dialogue and diplomacy.
  • Respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations.
  • Adhere to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
  • Promote regional peace, stability and prosperity.

Stand on Regional Security

• Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining peace, security and stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
• Key Positions
  • Opposed unilateral attempts to alter the status quo by force.
  • Supported peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.
  • Reaffirmed commitment to freedom of navigation and adherence to international law, including UNCLOS.
  • Condemned cross-border terrorism in all its forms.
  • Recognised terrorism as a global threat requiring international cooperation.
  • Emphasised diplomacy as the preferred means of resolving international conflicts.
• Significance
  • Reinforces a rules-based international order.
  • Promotes stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • Strengthens cooperation against terrorism and transnational threats.
  • Encourages peaceful settlement of disputes.

Challenges in India–Australia Relations

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Trade and Economic Challenges

• Delay in concluding the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).
• Persistent non-tariff barriers affecting trade.
• Differences over market access and regulatory standards.

 Strategic Challenges

• China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific.
• Regional geopolitical tensions.
• Supply chain vulnerabilities and maritime security concerns.

Connectivity Challenges

• High logistics and transportation costs.
• Limited direct connectivity.
• Need for stronger business-to-business and people-to-people engagement.

Way Forward

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• Conclude CECA and finalise the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT).
• Expand cooperation in digital trade, investment and services.
• Enhance joint military exercises and defence industrial cooperation.
• Expand maritime domain awareness and defence technology collaboration.
• Deepen cooperation in AI, semiconductors, quantum technologies and cybersecurity.
• Promote joint research, innovation and startup collaboration.
• Increase investments in critical minerals.
• Expand civil nuclear and renewable energy cooperation.
• Build resilient critical mineral supply chains.
• Deepen engagement through the Quad.
• Promote a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
• Enhance coordination in the G20, IORA and East Asia Summit.

Key Takeaways

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UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

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Consider the following statements:

1. ECTA is the existing trade agreement between India and Australia.
2. CECA aims to expand cooperation in goods, services and investment.
3. Australia is an important source of critical minerals for India.

Which of the above statements are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1 only

Answer: C

Mains Practice Question

Q. “Discuss the strategic importance of India–Australia cooperation in strengthening India’s economic and national security.” (10 Marks, 150 Words)

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China’s Supercomputer And India’s Semiconductor Mission

Source: Indian Express
GS III: Science & Technology

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Overview

1. News in Brief
2. About China’s LineShine Supercomputer
3. Lessons for India
4. Challenges Before India
5. Opportunities for India

Why in the News?

China’s LineShine topped the TOP 500 rankings as the world’s fastest supercomputer, achieving over 2 exaflops of computing performance.

News in Brief

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• Built entirely using indigenous processors, interconnects, operating systems, and software, this development showcases China’s technological self-reliance.
• The achievement comes despite US export restrictions on advanced semiconductor technologies, highlighting the success of China’s domestic innovation strategy.
• The development offers valuable lessons for India’s India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) in building a resilient and globally competitive semiconductor ecosystem.

About China’s LineShine Supercomputer

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Major Features

• World’s fastest supercomputer in the latest TOP500 rankings.
• Delivers over 2 exaflops of computing performance.
• Uses only general-purpose CPUs (no GPUs).
• Built entirely with indigenous Chinese hardware and software.
• Located at the National Supercomputing Centre, Shenzhen.

Technology Stack

• Processor: Loongson/Arm-based CPUs.
• Interconnect: LinkQi high-speed network.
• Software: LinkKun computing platform.
• Operating System: Kylin OS.
• Scale: Around 13.8 million processing cores.

Significance of LineShine

• Demonstrates technological self-reliance in advanced computing.
• Showcases resilience despite US export restrictions.
• Strengthens China’s leadership in high-performance computing (HPC).
• Supports AI, scientific research, defence, and national security applications.

China’s Semiconductor Strategy

• Expanding domestic chip manufacturing.
• Developing indigenous semiconductor equipment.
• Strengthening the local supply chain for materials and components.
• Promoting advanced chip design and processor architecture.
• Building domestic software platforms and operating systems.
• Backed by long-term government funding and industrial policy.

Lessons for India

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Build a Complete Semiconductor Ecosystem

• China’s success demonstrates that semiconductor leadership cannot be achieved through fabrication plants alone.
• A globally competitive ecosystem must integrate every stage of the value chain, including chip design, fabrication, manufacturing equipment, raw materials, packaging, testing, software, and a highly skilled workforce.
• India’s focus should therefore be on developing an end-to-end semiconductor ecosystem rather than isolated manufacturing facilities.

Move from Chip Design Services to Indigenous Innovation

• India is already a global hub for semiconductor design, with multinational companies such as Nvidia, Intel, Qualcomm, AMD and Texas Instruments operating major design centres.
• The next step is to move beyond providing design services for foreign firms and create indigenous processor architectures, intellectual property (IP), and globally competitive semiconductor products.
• This shift will significantly increase value addition and technological sovereignty.

Invest in Long-Term Research and Development

• Sustained investment in research and development is essential for technological leadership.
• India must strengthen research in advanced processor architecture, semiconductor materials, next-generation packaging technologies, artificial intelligence chips, quantum computing, and other emerging technologies.
• Long-term innovation, rather than short-term manufacturing targets, will determine competitiveness.

Develop a Highly Skilled Workforce

• The semiconductor industry depends on specialized human capital.
• India should expand education, training, and industry collaboration in areas such as VLSI design, embedded systems, semiconductor physics, chip verification, fabrication processes, and electronics manufacturing.
• Building a large pool of skilled engineers will support both domestic industries and global investments.

Promote Domestic Innovation and Start-ups

• Innovation should be driven by a strong ecosystem of research institutions, start-ups, and private industry.
• Government support should encourage the development of indigenous AI chips, edge processors, semiconductor equipment, and processor architectures, reducing reliance on imported technologies while fostering globally competitive Indian companies.

Reduce Import Dependence

• India currently depends heavily on imports for semiconductor manufacturing equipment, wafers, specialty chemicals, and electronic components.
• Developing domestic manufacturing capabilities in these critical areas will improve supply-chain resilience, reduce strategic vulnerabilities, and strengthen technological self-reliance.

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)

• The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) was launched in 2021 with the objective of transforming India into a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing and electronics production.
• It seeks to create a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem by supporting fabrication facilities, display manufacturing, compound semiconductors, chip design, packaging and testing infrastructure, and advanced semiconductor research.

Recent Developments

• The mission has gained momentum through the approval of multiple semiconductor projects across different states.
• Major investments include the Tata semiconductor fabrication facility at Dholera, Gujarat, along with the rapid expansion of OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Testing) facilities.
• These initiatives are strengthening India’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem and laying the foundation for domestic semiconductor production.

Challenges Before India

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• High Capital Requirements
  • Establishing semiconductor fabrication facilities requires investments running into several billion dollars, making it one of the world’s most capital-intensive industries.
• Technology Gap
  • Advanced semiconductor manufacturing technologies remain concentrated in a handful of countries, making technology access and transfer a significant challenge.
• Dependence on Imported Equipment
  • India relies heavily on imported semiconductor manufacturing equipment, increasing production costs and exposing the industry to geopolitical risks.
• Weak Supply Chain
  • Domestic production of wafers, specialty chemicals, industrial gases, and other critical inputs remains limited, affecting the resilience of the semiconductor ecosystem.
• Shortage of Skilled Professionals
  • Rapid expansion of the semiconductor industry requires a much larger pool of engineers and technicians with specialized expertise in chip design, fabrication, and testing.
• Long Gestation Period
  • Semiconductor fabrication projects require several years before commercial production begins, demanding sustained policy support and long-term investment.

Opportunities for India

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• China Plus One Strategy
  • Global companies are diversifying their supply chains beyond China, creating an opportunity for India to emerge as an alternative manufacturing destination.
• Strong Design Capabilities
  • India already possesses one of the world’s largest semiconductor design talent pools, providing a strong foundation for moving into advanced manufacturing.
• Growing Domestic Demand
  • Rapid growth in electronics, electric vehicles, telecommunications, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure is increasing India’s demand for semiconductors.
• Government Policy Support
  • Initiatives such as the India Semiconductor Mission, Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, and ease-of-doing-business reforms are encouraging investment in the sector.
• Strategic International Partnerships
  • Collaboration with countries such as the United States, Japan, Taiwan, and European nations can provide access to technology, investment, and resilient semiconductor supply chains.

Way Forward for India

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• Build a complete semiconductor value chain.
• Encourage indigenous processor design.
• Increase semiconductor R&D spending.
• Expand engineering education in semiconductor technologies.
• Strengthen academia-industry collaboration.
• Promote domestic semiconductor equipment manufacturing.
• Diversify global technology partnerships.
• Focus on long-term policy stability and innovation-led growth.

Key Takeaways

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UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

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Which of the following are major applications of supercomputers?

1. Climate modelling
2. Drug discovery
3. Defence simulations
4. Artificial Intelligence

Select the correct answer using the code below.

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: D

Mains Practice Question

Q. The semiconductor ecosystem extends far beyond chip fabrication. Examine the components of a complete semiconductor value chain and evaluate India’s preparedness to become a global semiconductor hub. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

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