New Delhi: Union Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has warned that India’s expanding semiconductor industry could face cyberattacks, misinformation campaigns and physical sabotage as the country strengthens its position in global chip manufacturing.
Speaking in an interview with NDTV, Vaishnaw said India’s growing presence in strategic industries could attract opposition from groups that do not want the country to emerge as a major manufacturing hub.
Referring to the early stages of Apple’s iPhone assembly operations in India, the minister cited incidents involving alleged misinformation, electricity disruptions and other challenges. He argued that similar obstacles could emerge as India expands its semiconductor capabilities.
Vaishnaw urged companies and other stakeholders in the industry to prepare for potential threats, emphasising that semiconductors are critical to national security and economic development.
He identified cyberattacks, fake news and physical attacks as possible risks that the industry must address. According to the minister, India needs to strengthen its preparedness while establishing a sustainable position in the global semiconductor market.
Semiconductors are essential components in a wide range of modern technologies, including smartphones, computers, automobiles and defence equipment. Major chip manufacturing centres include the United States, Taiwan and South Korea, while China has also been expanding its capabilities.
India has increased its focus on semiconductor design and manufacturing in recent years, particularly amid growing demand for advanced technology and artificial intelligence infrastructure. The government has introduced initiatives to encourage domestic production and build a stronger semiconductor ecosystem.
The SEMICON India exhibition has served as a platform for promoting investment and international cooperation in the sector since its launch in 2022.
The 2026 edition, held from September 17 to 19, brought together approximately 300 international companies from 52 countries. The event also witnessed 56 memorandums of understanding, announcements and strategic initiatives aimed at supporting India’s semiconductor ambitions.
