IcfaiTech, Hyderabad, has inaugurated its Centre for Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward advanced semiconductor research and innovation. Ajai Chowdhry, co-founder of HCL and Chairman of the EPIC Foundation, inaugurated the state-of-the-art facility. This initiative aspires to establish IcfaiTech as a leading hub for innovation and collaboration in the global semiconductor industry.

VLSI Technology: A catalyst for innovation

During the event, Ajai Chowdhry emphasised the transformative potential of VLSI technology, underscoring its pivotal role in advancing artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and high-performance computing. He articulated how cutting-edge research in VLSI is critical for shaping India’s digital future and establishing the nation as a leader in the global technology landscape. Chowdhry remarked, “Innovation in VLSI is key to driving progress in AI, IoT, and high-performance computing.”

From Services to products

Chowdhry highlighted the importance of shifting India’s focus from a service-orientated economy to a product-driven one. He commended government initiatives like “Make in India” for fostering indigenous product development and urged increased investment in science and technology to enhance India’s global competitiveness. Additionally, he advocated for cultivating a robust start-up ecosystem that prioritises hardware innovation, which is critical for sustainable growth in the technology sector.

Aligning with national semiconductor goals

The VLSI Centre aligns seamlessly with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s (MeitY) strategic programs, including the ChipIN Centre and the Chips-to-Startup (C2S) initiative. These programs aim to strengthen India’s semiconductor ecosystem and bolster innovation.   Equipped with cutting-edge tools such as the Synopsys EDA tool, FPGA-based Xilinx boards, and Texas Analog Design Boards, the VLSI Centre offers students and researchers practical, hands-on experience. Integrating industry-standard resources bridges the gap between theoretical education and real-world application, empowering the next generation of semiconductor professionals.