ASML, a leading semiconductor equipment manufacturer, has officially launched its operations in India, aiming to hire 20 to 30 fresh engineering graduates in its initial phase, according to a senior official. During the SEMICON India 2026 event, ASML’s Executive Vice President Lin Kiat Yap shared this information with PTI, noting that the company’s plans will significantly depend on the success of Tata Electronics’ chip manufacturing unit in India and the country’s drive to expand its semiconductor industry.
When asked about the timeline for scaling operations, Yap stated, “Right now,” indicating that the initial team will comprise around 20-30 employees. He emphasized that the growth of their workforce will rely on India’s ambitions and the performance of Tata Electronics.
ASML is renowned for its advanced lithography technology, essential for creating circuits on silicon wafers, which form the backbone of modern electronic devices. The company holds a monopoly in this critical technology, meaning no advanced chips can be produced without its equipment.
Yap highlighted that many ASML clients are increasing their operational capacity domestically. He expressed optimism about Tata taking initial steps to cultivate the semiconductor ecosystem in India and the importance of having multiple players in this field. “We want Tata to succeed, as their success will inspire others to invest more time and resources into India,” he remarked.
At the event, ASML’s Chief Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Officer, Allan Wayne, noted that Tata Electronics is India’s first customer to establish a 300-millimeter semiconductor fabrication plant, capable of producing 50,000 wafers each month. He articulated the need for numerous fabs in the country for further scaling.
Wayne praised the policies being developed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, which are fostering a conducive environment for semiconductor growth in India. He emphasized the significance of local talent in achieving India’s ambitious semiconductor goals, projecting that the country aims to fulfill 15-25% of its local demand by 2032.
In a recent government initiative, the Semicon 2.0 scheme was announced, promising incentives of about Rs 1.27 lakh crore (or around USD 13.5 billion) to boost the semiconductor ecosystem. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw mentioned that investment proposals totaling USD 12 billion are anticipated under this new scheme.
Wayne stated that in line with the government’s target to meet 35-50% of the domestic semiconductor demand by 2035, India will likely need around a dozen large-scale chip manufacturing plants. While he mentioned that ASML might eventually consider local manufacturing, there are no immediate plans in place.
Talent and innovation are crucial for the progress of chip manufacturing in India, Wayne noted. He commented on the promising innovations he has witnessed lately and underscored the importance of delivering high-quality products on schedule. Tata Electronics’ semiconductor facility is set to begin operations in 2028.
“We need to ensure timely delivery as this is what our clients are looking for. With our presence in India, we expect to see many more customers coming to the country, which underscores the need for skilled talent to support our operations,” Wayne added. Additionally, Tata Electronics plans to collaborate with about 450 vendors to support its Dholera plant, constructing 363 vendor parks for their accommodation.
