India is embarking on the next phase of its semiconductor initiative, dubbed Semicon 2.0, as announced by Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw. This phase will emphasize chip design and the manufacturing equipment necessary for semiconductor production. The first phase has already seen success with 12 approved plants, two of which, Micron and Kaynes, have begun commercial production. Another plant, CG Semi, is expected to start production in mid-July. Vaishnaw highlighted the rapid progress made since the initiative's launch on January 1, 2022, including the training of over 75,000 engineers in the sector. Semicon 2.0 aims to build a comprehensive ecosystem by focusing on the entire semiconductor value chain, including the production of critical chemicals and gases. The minister noted that approximately 40 startups in semiconductor design have emerged, receiving venture capital support. He expressed confidence that global players would show increased interest in India's semiconductor landscape in this new phase.