₹5,532-cr boost for 7 electronics projects to create 5,100 jobs; key highlights

Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has approved the first trench of 7 projects under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS). Now, Multi-Layer Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), HDI PCBs, camera modules, copper clad laminates, and polypropylene films will be 'Made in India'. The move marks a major step in India’s journey from making finished products to manufacturing modules, components, materials & machinery used to manufacture them.

Here are the key highlights:

1) The Ministry of Electronics & IT says the scheme has received a huge response from both domestic and global companies. Around 249 applications have been received. These represent an investment of ₹1.15 lakh crore, production of ₹10.34 lakh crore, and the creation of 1.42 lakh jobs. It is the highest-ever investment commitment in India’s electronics sector.

2) The latest approval comes for seven projects, which are worth ₹5,532 crore. These projects will lead to the production of components worth ₹36,559 crore and the creation of over 5,100 direct jobs.

3) The approved units are spread across Tamil Nadu (5), Andhra Pradesh (1), and Madhya Pradesh (1). Vaihnaw said: "Around 20% of our domestic demand of PCBs and 15% of camera module sub-assembly will be met through production from these plants." He said the demand for copper-clad laminate will now be completely domestically met. "The additional 60% of production through these plants will be exported."

4) The approved projects cover key components like high-density interconnect (HDI) PCBs, multi-layer PCBs, camera modules, copper clad laminates, and polypropylene films.

5) Camera modules are compact imaging units that capture photos and videos in electronic devices. Its production in India will enable its usage in smartphones, drones, laptops, tablets, medical instruments, robots, and automotive systems.

6) HDI and Multi-Layer PCBs are the core circuit boards that connect and control every electronic device. These are used in smartphones, laptops, automotive and industrial systems.

7) ECMS also marks India’s strong entry into component materials manufacturing. For the first time, India will establish a copper-clad laminate (CCL) manufacturing facility. CCL acts as a base component for manufacturing multi-layer PCBs. These PCBs are used in every type of electronic equipment.

8) The polypropylene films are the key material used in manufacturing capacitors. This component will be made in India for consumer electronics, automotive, ICT, industrial & manufacturing, telecommunications and computing equipment.

9) These projects will reduce import dependence and lower product prices in the domestic market. They will create high-skill jobs in manufacturing and R&D. Trusted supply chains will be built for defence, telecom, EVs, and renewable energy.