Jacobs Embraces India’s Booming Semiconductor Sector

Jacobs Engineering, a global leader in engineering services, is seizing new opportunities in India, particularly in the fast-growing semiconductor sector. The company is sharpening its focus as more downstream industries establish a presence in the country, while large chip fabrication units and assembly facilities are being set up.

Semiconductor Projects in India

In an interview, Bob Pragada, Global CEO of Jacobs, confirmed the company’s active role in four of the five semiconductor projects that have received Indian government approval. Jacobs is in full engagement with CG Power and the Tata Group.

Notably, Jacobs is partnering with CG Power to build an OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility in Sanand, Gujarat. This facility is expected to play a crucial role as a packaging test and assembly partner for Renesas, with the project moving quickly through design and construction phases. The plant is projected to be the fastest chip assembly facility to start production.

Growing Partnership with Kaynes Semicon

Jacobs has also joined forces with Kaynes Semicon, which recently received approval for an OSAT facility in Sanand. This adds another layer to Jacobs' involvement in India's rapidly growing semiconductor ecosystem.

Workforce Expansion in India

With over 4,000 employees in India, Jacobs expects to double this number by 2027-2029. Pragada emphasized the availability of talent and India’s importance in Jacobs' global growth strategy. By 2029, India is expected to become the company’s second-largest market, following the US and the UK.

Role in Data Center Growth

Jacobs is also making strides in the data center business, collaborating closely with the Adani Group. The company is a preferred global partner for four major hyperscalers expanding in India, offering advisory services as they scale operations.

Strengthening the Semiconductor Ecosystem

Pragada highlighted the importance of building a robust semiconductor ecosystem in India. This involves not just chip manufacturers but also material and specialty chemical providers and suppliers of essential components like steel and pipes. Jacobs is well-positioned to contribute to the sector's development by integrating these downstream supply chain players into the country.

Key Semiconductor Projects in India:

• Tata Electronics - Fabrication facility in Dholera.
• CG Power - Semiconductor ATMP unit in Sanand.
• Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test - ATMP facility in Morigaon, Assam.
• Micron Technology - Unit in Sanand.
• Kaynes Semicon - OSAT unit in Sanand.

Looking Forward

As India’s semiconductor industry expands, Jacobs is at the forefront, helping the country become a significant player on the global stage. With continued growth in advanced manufacturing, data centers, and life sciences, Jacobs is positioning itself as a key driver of India's technological and industrial transformation.

Conclusion

With India's semiconductor sector poised for explosive growth, Jacobs Engineering is a vital player, driving innovation and infrastructure development. Its involvement in chip fabrication, assembly, and testing is set to transform India into a global semiconductor hub.

Courtesy by: THE ECONOMIC TIMES