TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship has released a report highlighting a significant skill gap in India's semiconductor industry. As global electronic manufacturers de-risk operations and the Indian government implements targeted initiatives, India is emerging as a key player in the global semiconductor manufacturing sector. However, the industry faces a potential shortfall of 250,000 to 300,000 professionals by 2027, posing a significant challenge to its growth.
The semiconductor industry in India is expected to become a $100 billion sector by 2030, generating approximately 1 million jobs globally by 2025–2026. Strategic government initiatives such as the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, and the Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme have been instrumental in this growth. Recently, the approval of $15 billion in investments for three semiconductor plants highlights the effectiveness of these schemes. The PLI scheme, in particular, provides a $1.7 billion incentive package to companies establishing semiconductor manufacturing facilities in India, significantly boosting the industry’s capacity and job creation potential.
Despite the promising outlook, TeamLease’s projections indicate a looming deficit of skilled professionals in the semiconductor industry, spanning roles in R&D, design, manufacturing, and advanced packaging. To bridge this gap, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship is collaborating with academia, government bodies, and industry leaders. This partnership aims to implement entry-level workforce solutions, accelerate apprenticeship programs, design education-blended work programs, and introduce advanced professional courses.
The Electronics Sector Skill Council (ESSC) currently offers over 35 apprenticeship courses under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) to address skill shortages. Sumit Kumar, Chief Business Officer at TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, noted a significant increase in the number of apprenticeships in the electronics industry, rising from 7,517 in 2019-20 to 91,948 in 2023-24. TeamLease is leveraging this growth by introducing specialised programs such as PG Diplomas in Total Quality Management and MBAs under Work-Integrated Learning Programs, tailored to meet the semiconductor industry’s needs.
Ramesh Alluri Reddy, CEO of TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship highlights the importance of advancements in AI-driven technologies, which are pushing India towards higher-value activities in the semiconductor sector. AI-powered chip design and smart manufacturing are creating a demand for professionals skilled in AI, IoT, and 5G.
Building an ecosystem for higher value creation activities and cultivating a competent workforce through degree apprenticeships and training programs is crucial for establishing India as a significant player in the global semiconductor industry. Degree apprenticeships offer an ideal pathway for combining theoretical and on-the-job training to meet industry requirements for a talented workforce. TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship’s Hire Train Deploy Model and Managed Training Services ensure their workforce is skilled and prepared for future challenges.
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