CENTRE ‘EXAMINING’ INDIAN TECH FIRM ON EU, U.S. SANCTIONS LIST
Why in the news?
- Bengaluru-based Si2 Microsystems, involved in semiconductor research, faces examination by the Indian government.
- Sanctioned by the European Union and previously banned by the U.S. from “dual-use” technology transfers for dealings with Russia.
- The company, a project partner with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), collaborates on an “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
Project Collaboration and Legal Complications:
- Si2 Microsystems collaborated with IIT-Madras and MeitY for a silicon chip project in October 2023.
- Indian government scrutinizes EU sanctions on Si2, contemplating a protest, asserting legal collaboration.
- IIT-Madras reviews the situation; impact of EU and U.S. sanctions uncertain on the project.
What are Semiconductors ?
● Semiconductors are materials which have a conductivity between conductors and insulators. ● They can be pure elements – silicon and germanium or compounds – gallium, arsenide and cadmium selenide. ● Fundamental building blocks, semiconductor chips function as the core of modern electronics and ICT products. ● Widely integrated into cars, household devices, and critical medical equipment. About India’s Semiconductor Mission ● India’s Semiconductor Mission launched in 2021. ● Includes schemes for Semiconductor Fabs, Display Fabs, and Compound Semiconductors/Silicon Photonics/Sensors Fab. |