India has achieved a significant milestone in its journey towards semiconductor self-reliance with the development of its first indigenous 32-bit microprocessor, the Vikram-32. This achievement was showcased at Semicon India 2025, where Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw presented the chip to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), the Vikram-32 is specifically designed and qualified for the harsh conditions encountered by space launch vehicles.

Key Features and Capabilities

The Vikram-32 is a versatile computer chip capable of handling a wide array of tasks. Its key features include:

• 32-bit Architecture: The chip processes data in 32-bit chunks, enabling it to handle more data with greater precision.
• Floating-Point Operations: It supports 64-bit floating-point operations, which are essential for accurate trajectory and guidance calculations in space missions.
• Extreme Temperature Tolerance: The Vikram-32 is designed to withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -55 degrees Celsius to +125 degrees Celsius, ensuring reliable performance in the harsh space environment.
• Robust Design: Manufactured to military-grade standards, the chip is rigorously tested to ensure it can withstand extreme heat, cold, vibration, and radiation.
• Ada Programming Language Compatibility: The processor supports programming in the Ada language, which is commonly used in aerospace applications.
• Custom Instruction Set Architecture (ISA): The Vikram-32 utilizes a custom ISA tailored to the specific requirements of space applications.
• On-Chip 1553B Bus Interfaces: It features on-chip 1553B bus interfaces for reliable communication during missions.
• Substantial Memory Handling: The chip can handle substantial memory and execute complex instructions necessary for launching satellites and space vehicles.

Applications

The Vikram-32 is designed to manage navigation, control, and mission management in launch vehicles, performing the rapid calculations needed to maintain rocket stability and trajectory. Its robust design and versatility also make it suitable for applications in the defense, aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors.

Significance

The development of the Vikram-32 marks a significant step towards India's self-reliance in semiconductor technology. Previously, India relied heavily on imported chips, but with the Vikram-32, the nation has demonstrated its ability to design, fabricate, and test its own processors for critical applications. This achievement is expected to reduce dependency on foreign sources and strengthen India's strategic independence.

The Vikram-32 builds upon ISRO's earlier Vikram 1601, a 16-bit processor that has been powering India's launch vehicles since 2009. The upgrade to a 32-bit architecture represents a significant advancement in processing power and capabilities.

The initial batch of Vikram 3201 devices was successfully validated in space during the PSLV-C60 mission, demonstrating its reliability for future space missions. The fabrication and packaging of the Vikram-32 took place at SCL's 180nm CMOS facility in Mohali, Punjab.

Government Support and Future Prospects

The development of the Vikram-32 is a result of the government's strong support for the semiconductor industry through initiatives like the India Semiconductor Mission, launched in 2021. This mission provides incentives and support for companies to establish semiconductor manufacturing facilities in India. The government has approved 10 semiconductor manufacturing projects with a cumulative investment of more than ₹1.60 lakh crore in six states.

With the launch of the Vikram-32 and the ongoing construction of five semiconductor units, India is poised to become a major hub for chip manufacturing and design. This will not only boost the economy but also enhance the country's technological capabilities and strategic position in the global market.