The Information Technology and electronics industry welcomed the reappointment of Ashwini Vaishnaw and the induction of Jitin Prasada into their respective ministerial roles, anticipating a boost to India's ambitions in the semiconductor and electronics sectors. Ashwini Vaishnaw has assumed charge as the Minister of Railways, Minister of Information and Broadcasting, and Minister of Electronics and IT. Meanwhile, Jitin Prasada has taken on the roles of Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, and Electronics and IT.
Industry leaders expressed optimism that this leadership team would enhance India's global competitiveness in electronics manufacturing and semiconductor development. Dr. V. Veerappan, Chairman of the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), emphasized the benefits of continuity and fresh perspectives. "We congratulate Ashwini Vaishnaw on retaining his portfolio as Minister of Electronics and IT, and welcome the newly-appointed MoS Jitin Prasada. Minister Vaishnaw's continued leadership is crucial for reinforcing support to the sector, while MoS Prasada’s fresh insights are expected to contribute significantly to economic growth and job creation," Veerappan stated.
Dr. Ajai Chowdhry, Co-Founder of HCL and Chairman of the EPIC Foundation and National Quantum Mission Governing Board, highlighted Vaishnaw’s instrumental role in advancing India's semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. "Minister Vaishnaw has been a key architect of the semiconductor manufacturing movement, fostering a robust ecosystem that has propelled India's electronics exports. His reappointment will ensure the industry’s ongoing efforts to position India as a global hub for electronics product design and manufacturing," Chowdhry noted.
The addition of Jitin Prasada to the ministry is seen as a promising development. Chowdhry expressed confidence in Prasada’s ability to provide new direction and insights, given his extensive experience on various government committees related to IT and Communications. "Prasada's entry into the Ministry of Electronics and IT is anticipated to strengthen the sector further. His expertise will likely bring innovative strategies to enhance the industry's growth trajectory," Chowdhry added.
Industry experts underscored that the next five years will be critical in shaping the future of electronics product design and manufacturing in India. Collaborative action during this period is expected to redefine India's standing as a manufacturing hub. The government aims to increase electronics production to $300 billion by FY26, with exports projected to grow from $15 billion in 2021-22 to $120 billion by 2026.
The IT and electronics industry is poised to capitalize on the leadership and strategic initiatives of Vaishnaw and Prasada, working towards achieving the ambitious goals set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision. As the country navigates this transformative phase, the industry looks forward to collaborative efforts that will drive innovation and global competitiveness in the electronics and IT sectors.