MERI and SIA-India conference in Delhi examined space-grade chips, defence applications, semiconductor fabrication and India’s technology goals
NEW DELHI: Defence leaders, space scientists, policymakers and industry experts gathered at Taramandal, MERI Delhi Campus, for a national conference on space chips and semiconductor technology. The MERI Group of Institutions organised the event in association with SIA-India and its Department of Space Studies.
The conference, titled “Space Chips: Purpose, Designing, Fabrication and Frontier Technology,” examined the technologies needed to strengthen India’s space capabilities. Discussions covered chip design and manufacturing, reliable semiconductor supply chains and the development of indigenous technology.
Speakers Highlight Need for Indigenous Chip Manufacturing
Prof. Lalit Aggarwal, Vice President of MERI, opened the conference with an introductory address. Shri Pawan Kapur outlined SIA-India’s framework for strengthening the country’s space technology ecosystem.
Dr. Kamaljeet Singh, Director General of the Semi-Conductor Laboratory, stressed the importance of manufacturing space-grade chips within India. These components support applications that require high reliability in demanding environments.
Lt Gen PJS Pannu highlighted the role of radiation-hardened microchips in defence communications and space surveillance. The discussion underlined the importance of specialised electronic components in space and security-related systems.
Col. Anurag Awasthi, Maj. Gen. Ravi Chaudhary and Shri Yogesh Shinde also shared their perspectives on semiconductor fabrication, AI-driven warfare, MEMS, specialised sensors and photonic integrated circuits.
Space Technology and Maritime Strategy in Focus
The conference also addressed the use of space technology beyond conventional space missions. Organisers released a report titled “Role of Space in Oceanography & Blue Economy,” highlighting the connection between space-based capabilities, oceanography and the blue economy.
A roundtable examined ways to integrate space technologies into India’s maritime strategy and support the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Air Cmde Himanshu Gopal delivered the closing remarks and vote of thanks. The event brought together perspectives from defence, research, education and industry on the future of India’s space technology ecosystem.
