• UGI USER
  • Feb 28, 2024
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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.