India’s First Major Wafer Fab May Begin With 90nm Chip Production Instead of 28nm
India’s ambition to become a global semiconductor manufacturing hub is taking a major step forward, but its first large-scale wafer fabrication plant may begin with older chipmaking technology than many expected.
The Tata group’s upcoming semiconductor fab is reportedly set to start production using 90nm process technology, rather than the more advanced 28nm node that had previously been highlighted in public discussions. While 90nm chips are considered mature by today’s standards, they still play an important role in several industries, including automotive electronics, power management, industrial equipment, consumer appliances, and basic connectivity devices.
The move shows both the promise and the challenge of India’s semiconductor journey. Building a chip industry from the ground up is an extremely complex task that requires advanced machinery, experienced engineering talent, reliable supply chains, cleanroom infrastructure, and years of process refinement. Starting with a proven and widely used node like 90nm could help reduce risk and allow the country to develop manufacturing expertise before moving toward more advanced chip production.
Although 28nm technology is far more capable and remains widely used in modern electronics, it is also more difficult to manufacture at scale. A transition from 90nm to 28nm would require tighter process control, higher yields, and deeper technical experience. For a new fab entering production, beginning with mature-node chips may be a practical first step rather than a setback.
India has been working aggressively to attract semiconductor investment as global demand for chips continues to grow. Governments and companies around the world are seeking to diversify chip supply chains, especially after recent shortages exposed how dependent many industries are on a limited number of manufacturing regions. India wants to position itself as a serious alternative by building domestic capacity across chip design, assembly, testing, packaging, and wafer fabrication.
The reported use of 90nm technology highlights that India’s semiconductor rise will likely be gradual. Instead of immediately competing with the most advanced fabs producing cutting-edge processors, the country may first focus on mature semiconductor nodes that remain essential to everyday technology. This approach could still create a strong foundation for long-term growth.
For Tata, the project represents a crucial entry into one of the world’s most strategic industries. If successful, the fab could help India reduce its reliance on imported chips while supporting local electronics manufacturing. Over time, experience gained from 90nm production could pave the way for more advanced nodes, including 65nm, 45nm, and eventually 28nm.
The key takeaway is that India’s first large-scale chip fab may not begin at the cutting edge, but it does mark an important milestone. Semiconductor manufacturing is a long game, and even mature-node production can be a meaningful start. If India can build reliable capacity, improve yields, and expand its technical base, this first step could become the foundation for a much larger role in the global chip industry.
