Eli Lilly to Invest Over $1 Billion in India to Expand Global Drug Manufacturing

Eli Lilly and Company today announced plans to invest more than $1 Billion over the next several years into new contract manufacturing in India, expanding patients’ access to innovative medicines around the world. This strategic investment will further strengthen the manufacturing and supply capabilities to support our evolving portfolio.

In addition, Lilly will establish a new Manufacturing & Quality presence in Hyderabad. This new hub will offer advanced technical capabilities and oversight for Lilly’s contract manufacturing network across India. Recruitment will begin immediately, with openings across roles such as engineers, chemists, analytical scientists, quality control and assurance professionals, and management positions. This initiative reflects Lilly’s intent to leverage India’s highly skilled talent pool to support its global manufacturing growth and deliver medicines to patients worldwide. Since 2020, Lilly has committed more than $55 billion to build, expand, and acquire facilities in the U.S. and around the world. These facilities and investments address growth from potential new medicines to treat diabetes and obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer and autoimmune conditions and prepare for medicines of the future.

Shri A. Revanth Reddy, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana, said, “Lilly’s continued expansion in Hyderabad highlights the city’s emergence as a powerhouse in global healthcare innovation. From the recent opening of its Innovation and Technology site to a new manufacturing collaboration and the establishment of a Manufacturing & Quality hub, Lilly is moving swiftly to expand its presence in Telangana — reinforcing the state’s position as a preferred destination for cutting-edge healthcare investments.”

Shri Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Industries & Commerce and Legislative Affairs, Telangana, added, “Lilly’s expansion in Hyderabad is a testament to Telangana’s dynamic industrial landscape and its growing influence in advanced healthcare manufacturing. The state’s focus on technology-driven infrastructure and ease of doing business continues to attract global leaders across sectors and lifesciences sector in particular has been on accelerated growth.”

Nivruti Rai, Managing Director & CEO, Invest India, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Govt. of India, said, "Lilly’s investment in India reflects not only the country’s rise as a competitive global manufacturing and innovation hub, but also Lilly’s own commitment to growth, innovation, and advancing healthcare worldwide. This partnership reflects confidence in India’s skilled talent, robust infrastructure, and business-friendly policies, while supporting Lilly’s journey as a global leader in life sciences. Together, we are shaping a stronger future for healthcare and manufacturing. We are proud to support Lilly’s growth journey in India and wish them continued success in the years ahead."

“We are making significant investments to increase manufacturing and medicine supply capacity around the world to help ensure patients have access to the medicines they need,” said, Patrik Jonsson, Executive Vice President and President Lilly International, Eli Lilly and Company. “Working with trusted contract manufacturers expands our capabilities to deliver life-changing medicines at greater scale — with quality always at the core. This investment reaffirms our confidence in India as a hub for capability building within our global network.”

With a longstanding presence in India, including a commercial site in Gurugram and specialized sites in Bengaluru and Hyderabad that serve as important hubs supporting global innovation, Lilly is reinforcing its commitment to the country through strategic investments in local talent and technical capabilities.

About Lilly

Lilly is a medicine company turning science into healing to make life better for people around the world. We've been pioneering life-changing discoveries for nearly 150 years, and today our medicines help tens of millions of people across the globe. Harnessing the power of biotechnology, chemistry and genetic medicine, our scientists are urgently advancing new discoveries to solve some of the world's most significant health challenges: redefining diabetes care; treating obesity and curtailing its most devastating long-term effects; advancing the fight against Alzheimer's disease; providing solutions to some of the most debilitating immune system disorders; and transforming the most difficult-to-treat cancers into manageable diseases. With each step toward a healthier world, we're motivated by one thing: making life better for millions more people. That includes delivering innovative clinical trials that reflect the diversity of our world and working to ensure our medicines are accessible and affordable.

UST and Kaynes Semicon Partner to Set Up a Rs 3,330 Crore Joint Venture for Semiconductor Manufacturing in India

UST, a leading AI and technology transformation solutions company, has announced a strategic investment in Kaynes Semicon, a prominent Indian semiconductor manufacturer. The investment arrangement lays the foundation for greater collaboration between the two firms as they work together to power the next era of electronics and Electric Vehicles (EVs), renewables, and consumer technology. Furthermore, the partnership advances India's ambition to become a leading semiconductor hub, promoting quality, reliability, and local value, while providing advanced solutions globally.

UST’s worldwide presence and existing semiconductor client base make it a valuable partner for Kaynes Semicon, creating opportunities for new customers to leverage the benefits of Indian assembly and testing. The partnership will also take advantage of UST’s digital engineering, AI-driven process improvements, and real-time data analysis, which are all essential for scale, reliability, and avoiding hidden costs.

Guided by the “Make in India” growth strategy, this collaboration comes as India’s semiconductor industry continues to mature, moving toward its long-term goals of self-reliance and next-generation technology leadership. The two leaders in electronics and engineering will further these efforts by establishing a Rs 3,300 crore world-class OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility in Sanand, Gujarat. OSAT remains relatively new in India, and its successful development requires a combination of Kaynes’ experience in the sector and UST’s strengths in R&D and testing.

Krishna Sudheendra, CEO, UST

“This ambitious partnership between UST and Kaynes Semicon will help shape the future of semiconductor manufacturing in India. We are proud to participate in the “Make in India” initiative. Together, our two great companies will harness the strengths of the Indian market and build a formidable foundation for the country to become a key player in the global semiconductor industry,” said Krishna Sudheendra, Chief Executive Officer, UST.

Gilroy Mathew, COO, UST

“Kaynes Semicon is built around the same values as UST, and I am excited to strengthen ties between our two great companies. Together, we will collaborate to meet rising global demand by accelerating the development, manufacturing, and assembly of advanced semiconductor components in India,” said Gilroy Mathew, Chief Operating Officer, UST.

"Our partnership with UST brings together world-class manufacturing and digital engineering expertise. This enables Kaynes Semicon to deliver advanced OSAT solutions while strengthening India’s self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem," said Raghu Panicker, Chief Executive Officer, Kaynes Semicon Private Limited.

​"Kaynes Semicon’s collaboration with UST is a proud milestone for the “Make in India” mission. Together, we are creating a platform that will set benchmarks for semiconductor assembly, testing, and innovation, not just for India but for the global market," said Ramesh Kannan, Promoter & Executive Vice Chairman, Kaynes Technology India Limited.

Kaynes Semicon is a wholly owned semiconductor subsidiary of Kaynes Technology India Ltd. Incorporated in 2008, Kaynes Technology is a leading end-to-end and IoT solutions-enabled integrated electronics manufacturing company, and is a listed company (BSE: 543664, NSE: KAYNES) in India.

Dassault Aviation Takes Control of JV with Anil Ambani's Reliance, Eyes Falcon Jet Assembly in India

Dassault Aviation has acquired an additional 2% stake in its joint venture with Anil Ambani’s Reliance Infrastructure, officially becoming the majority owner of Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd (DRAL) with a 51% shareholding. This move marks a strategic pivot, giving the French aerospace giant full control over operations, guarantees, and global service commitments.

Key Highlights:

• Stake Transfer: Reliance Aerostructure Ltd (a Reliance Infra subsidiary) sold 2% equity to Dassault for ₹175.96 crore.
• Ownership Shift: Dassault now holds 51%, while Reliance retains 49%. DRAL transitions from a Reliance subsidiary to an associate company.
• Operational Impact: DRAL manufactures components for Rafale fighter jets and Falcon 2000 business jets. It’s now designated as Dassault’s Centre of Excellence for Falcon aircraft.
• Make in India Boost: Dassault plans to launch its first Falcon jet final assembly line outside France—in Nagpur—with a target for the first “Made in India” Falcon 2000 flight by 2028.
• Financial Snapshot: DRAL contributed ₹69.93 crore in turnover for FY25, about 0.23% of Reliance Infra’s consolidated revenue.

This move not only strengthens Dassault’s footprint in India but also signals deeper integration of Indian manufacturing into global aerospace supply chains. If you’d like, I can break down the implications for defense strategy, investor sentiment, or India’s aviation ecosystem.

Falcon Jet Assembly in Nagpur

Dassault Aviation, in partnership with Reliance Aerostructure, is setting up its first-ever final assembly line (FAL) for Falcon business jets outside France, located at the MIHAN SEZ in Nagpur. This marks a historic moment for India's aerospace ambitions.

Key Details:

• Jet Model: Falcon 2000 LXS, a top-tier business executive jet.
• Timeline: First “Made in India” Falcon 2000 expected to take flight by 2028.
• Facility Role: DRAL (Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd) will evolve from component manufacturing to full aircraft assembly.
• Variants Planned: Beyond Falcon 2000, the site may also handle Falcon 6X and 8X programs.
• Production Capacity: Estimated at up to 22 jets annually, depending on global demand.
• Workforce Expansion: Staff expected to grow from 300 to 1,000 employees as operations scale.

Strategic Significance:

• Global Supply Chain Integration: India joins an elite club alongside the US, France, Canada, and Brazil in producing next-gen business jets.
• Make in India Momentum: Aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in high-tech manufacturing.
• Export Potential: Jets assembled in Nagpur will serve both domestic and international markets.

What DRAL Already Does:

• Produces cockpit sections, nose cones, and other airframe parts for Falcon jets.
• Has delivered 100+ Falcon components globally since its inception in 2017.

boAt to Co-Develop India-Made Semiconductor with HrdWyr; Tata Electronics to Lead Assembly

Representative Image

In a landmark move for India’s consumer electronics and semiconductor ecosystem, homegrown audio-tech giant boAt has made a strategic collaboration with Bengaluru-based chip design startup HrdWyr to co-develop a domestically designed and packaged chip, dubbed Indus 1011. The news was first reported by Moneycontrol on August 28, 2025, 9:44 AM IST.

The chip will be assembled and tested by Tata Electronics, marking a full-stack Indian effort in semiconductor innovation.

Inside the Chip: Indus 1011

The Indus 1011 is a MCU-class system-on-chip (SoC) engineered specifically for headset charging cases, with a focus on power and battery management. According to boAt, the chip delivers 20–30% improved charging efficiency, and future iterations will incorporate AI-powered battery optimization.

This is not just a chip—it’s a signal that India is ready to lead in fabless innovation,” said Aman Gupta, Co-founder of boAt, in an interview with Moneycontrol.

Made in India, for India

• Design & IP: Led by HrdWyr, a fabless startup specializing in low-power SoCs
• Assembly, Packaging & Testing (APT): Managed by Tata Electronics at its Hosur facility. 
• Deployment: boAt plans to integrate the chip into 25% of its product portfolio by 2026, starting with its premium Nirvana range

Strategic Implications

This collaboration marks the first India-designed and India-packaged chip for the wearables segment, reducing dependency on imports from Taiwan and China. It also shortens lead times and tightens supply chains for boAt, which has been scaling aggressively across global markets.

Ecosystem Ripple Effect

• The chip will be made available to other OEMs, fostering a broader domestic semiconductor ecosystem
• It sets a precedent for consumer brands investing in IP, not just product design
• The move aligns with India’s Semicon India initiative, which aims to position the country as a global semiconductor hub

HrdWyr is already prototyping a second-generation chip with Bluetooth stack integration, while Tata Electronics is expanding its APT capacity to support future consumer-grade silicon.

Foxconn’s Engineer Recall Exposes India’s Manufacturing Growing Pains

Foxconn’s recent and repeated recall of 300 Chinese engineers from its Tamil Nadu facility has cast a spotlight on India’s evolving role in global tech manufacturing—and the growing pains that come with it.

The first recall of Chinese engineers by Foxconn from its Indian facilities occurred between May and July 2025, according to Bloomberg reports. This initial wave involved over 300 engineers and technicians, primarily from the Yuzhan Technology unit in Tamil Nadu, which manufactures enclosures and display modules for older iPhone models.

The second recall, involving another 300 engineers, took place in August 2025, making it the second such incident in just a few months.

What Happened?

• Foxconn, Apple’s key assembly partner, recalled 300 Chinese engineers from its Yuzhan Technology unit in Tamil Nadu.
• This is the second such recall in recent months, reportedly prompted by Chinese government pressure to limit technology transfer and equipment exports to India and Southeast Asia.
• Foxconn is now replacing the Chinese engineers with Taiwanese counterparts, signaling a strategic pivot in its workforce sourcing.

Impact on Apple’s India Expansion

• The Yuzhan facility produces metal enclosures and display modules for older iPhone models—not the latest iPhone 17 line.
• Apple plans to manufacture all four iPhone 17 models in India, marking a major milestone in its supply chain diversification.
• However, the loss of experienced Chinese technicians could slow down efforts to localize production and maintain quality standards.

Spotlight on Indian Workforce

• Apple has consciously chosen to work with Indian suppliers, notably the Tata Group, which is now the only Indian iPhone assembler.
• While Indian firms are scaling up, they still face teething issues in precision manufacturing compared to their Chinese counterparts.
• The recall underscores both the opportunity and challenge of building a high-tech manufacturing ecosystem in India.

Geopolitical Undercurrents

• China’s move is seen as a silent sanction to discourage manufacturing migration to India.
• India and China are attempting to reset diplomatic ties, including easing visa rules and exploring cooperation in strategic sectors like rare earths.
• Meanwhile, Apple is balancing its global strategy with $100 billion in new U.S. manufacturing investments, aiming to appease American policymakers.

JSW Sarbloh Motors Partners with Tomcar USA to Launch India’s First Indigenized Tactical ATVs

JSW Sarbloh Motors, a subsidiary of JSW Defence Private Limited, a JSW Group company, today formed a strategic joint venture with Tomcar USA, a globally respected manufacturer of high-performance all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), for the local production of the TX range ATVs in India.

This landmark partnership signifies a major initiative by the JSW Group in line with India’s efforts to develop indigenously-manufactured tactical mobility platforms for Indian Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), State Police units, and strategic industrial sectors requiring ultra-durable extreme mobility off-road platforms.

Under the joint venture, JSW Sarbloh Motors will indigenize, manufacture, assemble, and support the Tomcar TX range at its facility in Chandigarh. The first India-assembled TX units are expected to roll out by early 2026, with field trials and demonstrations planned for multiple defence and paramilitary agencies in the coming months.

Mr. Parth Jindal of the JSW Group, said "We are delighted to announce this strategic joint venture between JSW Sarbloh Motors and Tomcar USA, which marks a significant milestone in our commitment to enhance India's defence capabilities. The TX platform is designed to meet the rigorous demands of our armed forces and security agencies whilst ensuring superior durability, flexibility, and safety. At JSW, we believe in combining cutting-edge technology with local production capabilities to foster a robust industrial ecosystem that strengthens our national security and creates job opportunities.”

Mr. Jaskirat Vladimir Singh Nagra, CEO and Founder Director of JSW Sarbloh Motors, said, "This joint venture is more than a business partnership, it is a strategic alignment of vision and purpose. We are committed to offering India’s defence and industrial sectors world-class mobility platforms with the ruggedness, modularity, and reliability they demand. We look forward to this exciting collaboration and are confident that our joint efforts will set new standards in tactical mobility within India and beyond."

Mr. Ram Zarchi, Founder & Principal of Tomcar USA, stated "We are honoured to announce our strategic joint venture with the JSW Group, marking a pivotal milestone in Tomcar’s entry into India. This partnership will allow us to deliver our proven platforms to the Indian Armed Forces, combining Tomcar’s decades of mission-grade engineering with JSW’s advanced manufacturing expertise and first-class leadership. Together, we will strengthen India’s tactical mobility capabilities while expanding Tomcar’s global footprint, particularly into right-hand-drive markets.”

Mr. Mark W. Farage, Interim CEO of Tomcar USA, commented: “This joint venture is the culmination of a thoughtful and deliberate process aimed at creating a truly strategic partnership. We are excited to hopefully contribute to India’s adaptation to the demands of modern warfare by providing the proven, battle-tested Tomcar platform to the Indian Army. In addition, we see enormous opportunity to deploy the Tomcar into India’s diverse commercial sectors – from mining and timber, to search and rescue, border patrol, farming, and beyond. This partnership positions us to deliver unmatched performance, durability, and reliability to customers across the country.”

Samsung Expands India Manufacturing with Laptop Production in Greater Noida

Samsung has officially begun manufacturing laptops in India at its Greater Noida facility, marking a strategic expansion of its local production portfolio beyond smartphones, wearables, and tablets.

In the coming years, this facility is set to become a hub for cutting-edge electronics manufacturing, contributing to India's Make in India initiative and strengthening domestic production capacity.

Samsung has not yet issued a formal press release on its website regarding the start of laptop manufacturing in Greater Noida. However, the development has been confirmed through multiple credible sources and government statements.

Key Highlights of Samsung’s Laptop Manufacturing Launch

• Location: Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh — one of Samsung’s oldest Indian factories, operational since 1996.
• Product Expansion: The facility now produces laptops alongside feature phones, smartphones, tablets, and wearables.
• Government Backing: Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw praised the move, citing it as part of India’s push for electronics self-reliance under the Make in India and Digital Bharat initiatives.
• Market Strategy:
  • Samsung is already India’s second-largest smartphone and tablet brand.
  • The laptop segment is currently dominated by HP, Dell, Lenovo, and Acer — Samsung aims to challenge this status quo.
• Economic Impact:
  • Expected to reduce import dependence.
  • Strengthen domestic supply chains.
  • Improve pricing competitiveness for Indian consumers.

What’s Next for Samsung in India?

Samsung has already rolled out its first batch of India-made laptops and plans to scale up production. Analysts expect this move to help Samsung gain a stronger foothold in India’s fast-growing laptop market, which is increasingly driven by demand for affordable, locally manufactured devices.

Samsung in India: Strategic Manufacturing & Market Expansion

Category	India Highlights
Manufacturing Footprint	Second-largest mobile phone production unit globally, located in Greater Noida
Product Portfolio	Smartphones, tablets, wearables, and now laptops—all made in India
Market Share	Second-largest smartphone brand by volume and value; 15% share in tablets
Export Role	Second-largest handset exporter from India after Apple
Growth Metrics	Electronics output rose from $31B (2014–15) to $133B (2024–25); exports up 47% YoY
R&D Presence	Over 7,000 engineers in India; strong local innovation pipeline
Consumer Reach	Tier 3 & 4 cities driving demand for premium devices like Galaxy Z Fold7

Samsung Globally: Tech Giant with Diverse Dominance

Category	Global Highlights
Revenue	$211.2 billion in FY 2024; second-largest tech company by revenue after Apple
Smartphone Market Share	~22.9% globally in Q1 2025; leads Android shipments
Semiconductors	#1 in DRAM (43.5%) and NAND flash (32.8%) globally
Display Technology	33.1% share in global OLED panel market
R&D Investment	$21.4 billion in 2024; second-highest globally
Global Workforce	267,000+ employees across 74 countries
Sustainability Goals	Net-zero Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 2050; 93.4% renewable energy transition in DX unit

Strategic Contrast:

• India Focus: Samsung is deepening its India strategy by localizing production, expanding into laptops, and tapping underserved markets. It’s positioning India as both a consumption and export hub.
• Global Footprint: Internationally, Samsung dominates in semiconductors, display tech, and premium smartphones, with a diversified portfolio and massive R&D spend driving innovation.

RRP Defence and CYGR to Establish Strategic Drone Manufacturing Hub in Navi Mumbai Under ‘Make in India'

• French UAV technology to be manufactured in India
• Facility based in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Focus on defence, homeland security, and industrial drone solutions
• Enhanced capability for Indian forces and strategic sectors
• Contribution to India’s high-skill employment and aerospace exports

In a significant stride toward strengthening India’s self-reliance in aerospace and defence technology, RRP DEFENCE LTD (RRP GROUP, India), through its dedicated entity "Vimananu Ltd", and CYGR (Franco-American) have announced a strategic collaboration to set up a drone manufacturing facility in India under the Make in India initiative.

This partnership aims to deliver advanced drone systems designed for tactical, surveillance, and industrial use—leveraging French-American technology and Indian manufacturing capability.

The facility, to be located in Navi Mumbai, will support the production of next-generation drones including:

• Hand-Launched Fixed Wing Drones – Lightweight and portable for field deployment
• Nano Drones – Compact platforms for close-range and indoor surveillance
• ISR Drones – Designed for Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance

Mr. Rajendra Chodankar, Chairman, RRP Defence Ltd, said, "This collaboration is a defining moment for India’s UAV ecosystem. By combining our local manufacturing strength and field understanding with CYGR’s world-class drone technologies, we’re building systems that meet India’s unique operational needs. It’s a proud step toward Atmanirbhar Bharat."

Rajendra Chodankar, Chairman, RRP Defence Ltd and George El Aily, Director, CYGR France at MoU Signing Ceremony

Mr. George El Aily, Director, CYGR France, stated, "India is a key strategic partner for us, and we are excited to bring our cutting-edge UAV platforms to this growing market. Through this collaboration with RRP DEFENCE LTD, we are not only transferring technology but also co-developing future-ready solutions that support India’s defence and surveillance landscape."

The Global Advisor, Dr. Zaynah, also mentioned that they will be offloading an immediate contract valued at over USD 20 million for Make in India global exports in defence. The quantities would be in hundreds of units each year. The LoI is also being released.

This partnership underlines India’s emergence as a global drone hub, backed by strategic international cooperation and indigenous capabilities.

Modi Govt Mulls Relaxing Make-in-India Rules for Electronics & Telecom Sector

Narendra Modi-led central government is considering a significant shift in its local content policy for electronics and telecom products, potentially lowering the threshold required to qualify as a “Class-I” local supplier under the Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) Order (PPP-MII). This move is being driven by challenges in achieving 50–60% local content due to India’s limited component.

Multinational corporations like Cisco and Ericsson have been lobbying for these changes, arguing that key components such as semiconductors and PCBs are not readily available from Indian suppliers. They’re pushing for design and software work done in India to count more heavily toward local content—even if the intellectual property remains foreign-owned.

Critics, including the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), warn that this could reduce India to a low-value assembly hub, discourage indigenous R&D, and disadvantage domestic firms like Tejas Networks and HFCL that have invested in local manufacturing and IP creation.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has opened a public consultation on the proposed changes, inviting feedback until early July.

India’s iPhone Production Lags Behind China: Scaling Bottlenecks and Supply Chain Realignment

Journalist Patrick McGee's book Apple in China highlights how India's iPhone production ramped up much more slowly than China's. Between 2016 and 2023, India produced 15 million iPhones, accounting for 7% of global shipments, whereas China, between 2006 and 2013, surged from zero to 153 million units—ten times India's pace.

A key reason is that India's role in Apple's supply chain is still largely Final Assembly, Test, and Pack (FATP), meaning most components are imported from China and assembled locally by partners like Wistron and Foxconn. This dependency limits India's ability to scale as rapidly as China did.

Apple has made progress—India now assembles flagship models, including the iPhone Pro, and distribution timelines have improved. However, full supply chain independence could take another 5–10 years, as India builds up infrastructure and local component sourcing.

McGee’s book, Apple in China, highlights both the loopholes and strengths in India’s iPhone manufacturing journey.

To start with, China's factories operate with highly optimized workflows, allowing rapid scaling. In contrast, India’s iPhone Production, as mentioned above, is still largely Final Assembly, Test, and Pack (FATP), meaning most components are imported from China. This dependency slows scaling efforts.

Unlike China’s deep manufacturing ecosystem, India lacks the same level of supplier clustering, making logistics more complex. Moreover, China builts a vast electronics manufacturing ecosystem over decades, while India is still developing its supply chain. Most components are imported from China, adding logistical complexity and costs.

Apple’s diversification into India hasn’t fully reduced reliance on China. The Shanghai lockdown in 2022 accelerated India’s role, but parallel operations have increased complexity rather than true supply chain independence.

Apple initially faced hurdles due to India’s 30% local sourcing requirement, which was relaxed in 2017 but still affects supply chain efficiency.

As of now, India has moved beyond entry-level models and now assembles iPhone Pro variants, matching China’s distribution timeliness.

Meanwhile, Apple’s $22 billion investment in India signals long-term commitment, with Foxconn and Tata playing key roles in scaling production. Apple aims to make India a full-fledged manufacturing hub, but experts estimate it could take 5–10 years before India reaches China's scale.

Rising US-China tensions and tariff policies make India a more attractive alternative for Apple’s supply chain diversification.

India’s expanding middle class and increasing iPhone adoption create a strong domestic market, encouraging further investment.

Foxconn’s recent $1.5 billion investment in India signals progress, but deep manufacturing (chips, displays, batteries) is still lacking.

India is making strides, but full-scale manufacturing independence could take another 5–10 years. It's an interesting case study, for the world to see, in manufacturing dynamics. Do you think India can eventually match China's scale, or will structural challenges persist? Do comment below....

Fujifilm and Tata Electronics to Build SemiCon Material Production and Supply Chain in India

Fujifilm has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Tata Electronics to establish a semiconductor materials production and supply chain in India. This partnership aligns with India's push for domestic semiconductor manufacturing, reducing reliance on imports.

Tata Electronics is currently constructing India's first semiconductor front-end manufacturing plant in Dholera, Gujarat, and a large-scale back-end manufacturing plant in Jagiroad, Assam. Fujifilm will leverage its expertise in semiconductor materials—from front-end to back-end processes—to support Tata Electronics' operations and potentially set up a semiconductor materials manufacturing facility in India.

While demand for semiconductors is increasing with the acceleration of global digitization, India currently relies on imports for the majority of its semiconductor needs. The Indian government is prioritizing domestic semiconductor production as a critical economic and strategic initiative.

Fujifilm will consider establishing a semiconductor materials manufacturing facility in India and procuring raw materials locally, aiming to capture the demand of the rapidly growing semiconductor-related market in India. This will further accelerate the growth of Fujifilm's semiconductor materials business while contributing to the development of a robust semiconductor materials ecosystem in India.

Fujifilm will supply a wide range of semiconductor materials to support Tata Electronics' manufacturing processes. These include:

• Photoresists – Essential for photolithography in chip fabrication.
• CMP slurries & post-CMP cleaners – Used in chemical mechanical planarization to smooth wafer surfaces.
• Thin-film chemicals – Critical for deposition processes in semiconductor manufacturing.
• Polyimides – High-performance materials used in semiconductor packaging.
• High-purity process chemicals – Ensuring precision and reliability in chip production.
• Color filter materials – Specifically for image sensors in semiconductor applicationsm

Fujifilm is also considering setting up a semiconductor materials manufacturing facility in India to localize production and strengthen the supply chain.

This collaboration could be a game-changer for India's semiconductor ecosystem. What aspect of this development interests you most? The supply chain, the tech, or the broader industry impact?

Adani Pulls Plug on $10 Bn Chip Bet—India’s Fab Future in Flux

Adani Group has paused its $10 billion semiconductor joint venture with Israel's Tower Semiconductor after an internal evaluation deemed the project strategically and commercially unviable. The facility, planned for Maharashtra, was expected to produce 80,000 wafers per month and create 5,000 jobs, aligning with India's ambition to become a global chipmaking hub.

Key reasons for the pause:

• Uncertain domestic demand for semiconductor production in India.
• Financial disagreements, with Adani expecting a stronger investment commitment from Tower Semiconductor.
• India's semiconductor landscape, which still lacks an operational fabrication plant despite government incentives.

This setback follows the collapse of Vedanta-Foxconn's $19.5 billion chip venture in 2023 due to cost concerns and delayed approvals. Meanwhile, Tata Group's $11 billion chip facility and Micron's $2.7 billion chip packaging plant continue to move forward.

India's semiconductor industry has undergone a significant transformation, shifting from a design-focused ecosystem to an ambitious manufacturing push.

Tata Group's ₹91,000 crore fab project in Gujarat marks India's first commercial semiconductor fabrication facility. Micron's $2.7 billion chip packaging plant and Vedanta-Foxconn's now-canceled $19.5 billion fab venture highlight India's growing ambitions and challenges.

However, despite all these developments, India still imports 95% of its chips, lacking an operational fabrication plant. The Dholera Special Investment Region is being developed as a semiconductor hub, but execution remains slow.

India Ramps Up iPhone Production to 60%, Captures 20% of Apple's Global Output

Apple's iPhone production in India has seen a massive 60% surge, reaching 1.89 lakh crore in the financial year 2024-25, reported news agency IANS. Of this, ₹1.5 lakh crore worth of iPhones were exported, marking a significant shift in Apple's global supply chain.

This growth is largely driven by Apple's expanding manufacturing footprint in India, with Foxconn, Tata Electronics, and Pegatron playing key roles. The US-China tariff war has also contributed to Apple's decision to ramp up production in India, as lower US tariffs on India-made smartphones give the company a strategic advantage.

India's smartphone exports hit ₹1.75 lakh crore ($21 billion) in April-February 2024-25, with Apple accounting for 70% of these exports. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has been instrumental in attracting foreign tech giants like Apple, helping India emerge as a major electronics manufacturing hub.

 

This shift could mean more locally assembled iPhones for Indian consumers and a stronger presence for Apple in the Indian market.

In February this year, India —for the first time — started exporting electronic components for Apple products to China and Vietnam, marking a notable shift from a net importer to an exporter of these components.

India's iPhone production has grown significantly, but it still lags behind China in overall scale. Apple has assembled $22 billion worth of iPhones in India in the past year, marking a 60% increase. Now, 20% of Apple's global iPhone output comes from India.

China, however, remains Apple's largest manufacturing hub, with nearly 200 suppliers deeply embedded in its supply chain. While Apple is diversifying, experts estimate it could take up to eight years to shift just 10% of its production capacity away from China.

One major advantage for India is zero tariffs on iPhones exported to the U.S., while China faces cumulative tariffs of massive 145%. This makes India a cost-effective alternative for Apple, especially as geopolitical tensions continue to impact global trade.

In February this year, it was reported that Apple Intelligence is launching in India in April 2025. Initially, it will support localized English tailored for Indian users. 

Besides, in early this month, Air India integrated Apple AirTag with its baggage-tracking system and mobile app to securely track the location of its flyers' baggage.

Mahindra Aerostructures Selected by Airbus for manufacturing H130 Helicopter Fuselage – A 'Make in India' Milestone

• Assemblies to be delivered to Airbus Helicopters' facility in Europe starting March 2027

Mahindra Aerostructures Pvt. Ltd. (MASPL), a part of the Mahindra Group, has been awarded a prestigious contract by Airbus Helicopters to manufacture and assemble the main fuselage of its H130 light single-engine helicopter — marking a major milestone for India's ‘Make in India’ vision and further cementing Mahindra’s position as a trusted partner in the global aerospace supply chain.

The contract was signed in the presence of Shri. Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Honourable Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India, Shri. Vumlunmang Vualnam, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Rémi Maillard, President and Managing Director of Airbus in India and South Asia, and Dr Anish Shah, Group CEO and Managing Director of the Mahindra Group.

Under this agreement, Mahindra will produce the H130’s main fuselage assembly, which will then be shipped to Airbus Helicopters’ facilities in Europe. Industrialisation will commence immediately, with the first cabin assembly scheduled for delivery by March 2027.

Dr Anish Shah, Group CEO & MD, Mahindra Group, said, “We are delighted to deepen our longstanding partnership with Airbus through this pivotal aerostructures contract. As a global leader, Airbus has played a transformative role in nurturing India’s aerospace ecosystem and showcasing it on the world stage. It is an honour for us to build on our proven track record with Airbus, harness our industrial process excellence, and embark on this new initiative. This collaboration highlights our commitment to supporting the Government of India's flagship 'Make in India' program.”

Rémi Maillard, President and Managing Director, Airbus in India and South Asia said, “We have a strategic plan for India and we are implementing it to develop a holistic aerospace ecosystem across all dimensions: assembly, manufacturing, engineering, innovation, digital and training. The H130 fuselage manufacturing contract underscores Airbus’ confidence in the growing industrial excellence of the Indian supply chain, which offers the right mix of competencies and competitiveness. We are glad to extend this bond with India through our latest association with our partner Mahindra Aerostructures.”

Mahindra already supplies a variety of parts and sub-assemblies for Airbus’ commercial aircraft programmes. The latest contract marks a significant milestone for Mahindra as it continues to expand its portfolio of capabilities from parts and sub-assemblies to larger and more complex aerostructures.

For Airbus, India is both a major market and a strategic resource hub. Today, every Airbus commercial aircraft has components and technologies made in India. Currently, Airbus’ annual procurement of components and services from India stands at $1.4 billion.

The H130 is an intermediate single-engine helicopter tailored for passenger transport, tourism and private and business aviation, as well as medical airlift and surveillance missions. It has a wide, unobstructed cabin, which accommodates the pilot and up to seven passengers, providing outstanding visibility through a large wrap-around windscreen and wide windows. Its state-of-the-art technologies, materials, systems and avionics make it a quiet and powerful helicopter.

Godrej Aerospace's Kaveri Engine Delivery: A Milestone in India's Defense Manufacturing

India's aerospace and defense sector has taken a significant leap forward with Godrej Aerospace's delivery of the first two modules of the Kaveri derivative engine to the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE). This event marks a crucial milestone in India's journey toward self-reliance in military aviation technology.

The Kaveri Engine is India’s indigenous jet engine project developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) under DRDO. It was originally intended to power the HAL Tejas fighter aircraft but faced technical challenges that delayed its deployment.

Why Is This Delivery Important?

The Kaveri engine project has long been a symbol of India's ambition to develop indigenous jet propulsion technology. Originally conceived to power the HAL Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), the program faced technical challenges that led to its delinking from the Tejas project. However, the Kaveri derivative engine, a 48 kN dry thrust variant, has found new applications, particularly in autonomous air vehicles. 

Godrej Aerospace's successful delivery of these modules demonstrates India's growing capability in precision manufacturing and advanced engineering. The company has committed to delivering six more modules by the end of 2025, fulfilling a critical order placed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Strengthening India's Defense Ecosystem

This collaboration between GTRE and Godrej Aerospace highlights the increasing synergy between India's government research institutions and private industry players. By leveraging its expertise in precision engineering, Godrej Aerospace is contributing to India's Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers for critical defense technology.

 

Moreover, the successful production of these engine modules lays the groundwork for future advancements, including India's aspirations to develop a 5th-generation fighter jet engine. The experience gained from manufacturing the Kaveri derivative engine will be instrumental in shaping India's next-generation propulsion systems.

Looking Ahead

With the remaining six modules set for delivery, India is steadily advancing toward indigenous unmanned aerial technology. The Kaveri derivative engine's role in autonomous air vehicles could pave the way for future stealth drones and combat UAVs, strengthening India's aerial defense capabilities.

Godrej Aerospace's achievement is more than just a delivery—it is a testament to India's evolving defense manufacturing prowess. As the country continues to innovate and refine its aerospace technology, this milestone serves as a stepping stone toward a future where India stands among the global leaders in military aviation.

India lacks high-altitude testing facilities, forcing reliance on foreign testing centers. Efforts are underway to develop Kaveri 2.0, which aims to bridge the gap with modern fifth-generation engines.

Tata Advanced Systems Buys 7.4 Lakh Sq Ft Land in Karnataka for Aircraft Manufacturing

Tata Advanced Systems has acquired 7.4 lakh square feet of land in Karnataka’s Vemgal Industrial Area for ₹29.34 crore. The land will be used for aircraft manufacturing, including final assembly, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).

The Tata Group company purchased the land from the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) under a lease-cum-sale agreement registered on February 24, 2025.

This move aligns with India's Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, strengthening domestic aerospace capabilities and boosting employment. Karnataka has been a preferred destination for aerospace investments, with Bengaluru already serving as a major hub for aviation and defense technology.

Key Details:

• Location: Vemgal Industrial Area, Karnataka, near Kolar-Chikkaballapur Road (SH-96).
• Transaction Type: Lease-cum-sale agreement registered on February 24, 2025.
• Stamp Duty Paid: ₹1.5 crores
• Cost per Acre: ₹1.7 crore.
• Lease Term: 10 years, with an annual rent of ₹17,011 and maintenance charges of ₹2.55 lakh.
• Industrial Area Size: 666 acres.
• Strategic Importance: Supports India’s defense aviation sector, strengthens self-reliance, and enhances global aerospace collaborations.

Why Karnataka?

Karnataka has been a preferred destination for aerospace investments, with Bengaluru already serving as a major hub for aviation and defense technology. The state’s progressive policies, skilled workforce, and strong infrastructure make it attractive for high-value manufacturing.

According to Government reports, the Aerospace industry has the potential to reach $70 billion by 2030.

The government's push for self-reliance and initiatives like Make in India are attracting foreign investments, leading to international partnerships with countries like France, Russia, and the U.S.

Tesla Rival BYD to Set Up Its First EV Factory in India Near Hyderabad

BYD, the world's largest electric vehicle manufacturer, is set to establish its first production facility in India near Hyderabad, Telangana. This move marks a significant milestone for India's EV sector, as Telangana will become the first Indian state to host a BYD factory. The facility is expected to produce up to 600,000 EVs annually within the next seven years.

The Telangana government has proposed three potential sites for the factory, and BYD representatives are currently evaluating them. This initiative could also lead to the development of ancillary industries manufacturing EV components, creating an automotive hub around Hyderabad.

BYD's entry into India comes at a time when the country is witnessing rapid growth in its EV market, with favorable policies and increasing demand.

Notably, BYD has a small assembly base in Tamil Nadu for electric buses. This facility plays a key role in BYD's strategy to establish a foothold in India's growing EV sector. While the current operations are limited in scale, the company has ambitious plans to expand its presence in India, including setting up a large-scale manufacturing facility near Hyderabad.

BYD's primary manufacturing hubs are in Shenzhen, Xi'an, and Changsha. These facilities produce a wide range of EVs, batteries, and components. BYD has a factory in Lancaster, California, focused on electric buses and trucks.

In Brazil, BYD has a facility in Campinas specializes in electric buses and solar panels.

When it comes to pricing, BYD's vehicles are generally more affordable than Tesla, making them accessible to a broader audience. Tesla's premium pricing targets a different segment.

BYD Vs Tesla

BYD has a significant edge in manufacturing scale, producing both EVs and batteries in-house. In 2024, it sold 1.79 million vehicles globally, surpassing Tesla's 1.37 million.

BYD's Blade Battery, a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, is known for its safety, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Tesla, on the other hand, uses a mix of LFP and nickel-based batteries, focusing on energy density.

BYD dominates the Chinese market and is expanding rapidly in other regions, including India. Tesla leads in Western markets like the U.S. and Europe but faces challenges in markets with high import duties, such as India.

Both companies are pioneers in EV technology. Tesla is renowned for its autonomous driving features and software integration, while BYD excels in cost-efficient manufacturing and energy solutions.

Singapore-based PTW partners with RRP Electronics Ltd to Establish the First Major Wafer Production Line in India

PTW is a Singapore headquartered semicon solutions provider, with focus on frontend wafer production tools refurbishment. PTW has recently started production of Robot arms for wafer transfers, single-chamber and multi-chamber spin etchers. Started in Singapore in 2015, PTW is now a global market leader in frontend semicon tools refurbishment and trading with 14 Subsidiaries in all key wafer producing countries and is approved vendor for more than 650 leading fabs around the world.

Rajendra K Chodankar, Chairman and CEO of RRP Group of Companies

Having been following the semicon industry development in India for the last few years, PTW has taken a proactive approach to play instrumental role in development of semicon industry in India. PTW sees opportunity to be the market leader in India in providing semicon engineering solutions with an early entry and strategic tie-ups with emerging and leading players in the industry.

PTW has been assisting leading foundries in the world to sell their proven and established production lines. PTW has recently assisted a Japanese and a European Customer to sell their Lines to East Asian Nations based businesses.

In March 2025, PTW has secured interest from RRP Electronics Ltd, a leading OSAT player in India, to buy a proven and established silicon wafer line, along with process and technology knowhow transfer. This plant at full capacity would earn more than $1.2 bln revenue with more than 60% gross profit margin, based on our customers current market benchmarks.

PTW aims to sell another two lines to Indian customers within the next 1 to 2 years. With this, PTW plays instrumental role in establishing India’s first major wafer producing plant. Potential 3 Line sales to India will support PTW strategy to become the market leader in fast growing major economies in the world i.e. India. This Line is expected to reduce India’s dependence on imports of Electronics and help Indian government ambition to Make in India.

RRP Electronics Ltd is expected to complete purchase of this Line within 2025 and start pilot production in 2025-26, with scale-up to full capacity utilization in the next 2 years.

TOP2, a Singapore based consulting firm, is advising PTW and RRP on this strategic partnership.

About RRP Electronics:

RRP Electronics Ltd. stands at the forefront of cutting-edge packaging technologies, offering innovative solutions in semiconductor packaging. With a dedication to excellence, sustainability, and continuous advancement, RRP Electronics is committed to meeting the ever-evolving needs of the electronics sector. The company’s focus on providing high-performance and reliable packaging solutions positions it as a leader in propelling the technology landscape forward.

www.rrpelectronics.com

India Signs $248 Mn Deal with Russia for Procuring Engines for T-72 Tanks for Indian Army

The Ministry of Defence, Government of India, has signed a $248 million deal with Russia's Rosoboronexport for the procurement of engines for T-72 tanks. Rosoboronexport is the only state organization in Russia for exporting the entire range of military, dual-use products technologies and services. 

The deal also includes Transfer of Technology (ToT) from M/s Rosoboronexport (RoE), Russian Federation to M/s Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (Heavy Vehicle Factory), Avadi, Chennai, for integration and subsequent licensed production of engines under ToT to boost the "Make in India' initiative in Defence Sector.

This initiative aligns with the "Make in India" program, promoting local production and integration of advanced technology.

T-72 is the mainstay of tank fleet of the Indian Army which is at present fitted with 780 HP Engine. Equipping the existing fleet of T-72 Tanks with 1000 HP Engine will enhance the battle field mobility and offensive capability of Indian Army.

The new 1000 HP engines will significantly enhance the performance of the T-72 tanks in several ways. The higher horsepower will improve the tanks' speed and maneuverability on the battlefield, allowing them to respond more quickly to changing combat situations. The new engines are expected to be more reliable and efficient, reducing the likelihood of mechanical failures during critical operations.

The upgraded engines will enable the T-72 tanks to operate effectively in diverse combat scenarios, including high-altitude and rugged terrains.

In A Major Shift, India Now Exporting Apple Components To China And Vietnam

For the first time, India has started exporting electronic components for Apple products to China and Vietnam. This marks a notable shift in India's role within the global supply chain, transitioning from a net importer to an exporter of these components.

Thanks to Government of India's initiatives like Make in India and Product Linked Incentive (PLI), Apple suppliers like Motherson Group, Jabil, Aequs, and Tata Electronics are producing key components in India, contributing to the development of a local electronics manufacturing ecosystem. This initiative is part of Apple's broader strategy to diversify its supply chain and deepen domestic value addition in India.

This move is expected to boost India's electronics manufacturing sector and help the country achieve its component exports target of $35-40 billion by 2030. It's a fascinating example of how global supply chains are evolving and how strategic investments can reshape economic landscapes.

China and Vietnam, which have been major hubs for Apple's manufacturing, will now receive components from India for final assembly. This could lead to a reconfiguration of their supply chains and potentially reduce their reliance on other component suppliers.

Countries like Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan, which are also significant players in the electronics manufacturing sector, might experience competitive pressure as India strengthens its position in the supply chain.

Moreover, for Apple, which is a US-based company, this shift aligns with its strategy to diversify its supply chain and reduce dependency on China. This move could also influence other US tech companies to explore similar strategies.

Domestically, this shift is expected to boost India's electronics manufacturing sector, create jobs, and attract further investments. It aligns with the Indian government's "Make in India" initiative and its goal to become a major electronics exporter.