In a historic breakthrough, researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Meghalaya have successfully designed and fabricated the state’s first-ever integrated chip (IC), marking a significant stride in India’s semiconductor journey.The achievement, made under the Special Manpower Development Program (SMDP) of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), was led by faculty members Dr. Prabir Saha, Dr. Shubhankar Majumdar, and Dr. Pradeep Kumar Rathore, with PhD scholars Geetima Kachari, Parishmita Goswami, and Deibaphira Suchiang.
The team developed a Finite State Machine (FSM) chip, fabricated at the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) foundry using a 180nm process. Designed to provide precise control in irrigation systems and tensiometers, the chip holds promising applications in India’s agricultural technology sector. The milestone was showcased before Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the SEMICON India 2025 summit, highlighting the role of academic innovation in advancing India’s self-reliance in high-tech manufacturing.
Officials said the success reflects both the Make in India initiative and the vision of building a Viksit Bharat. For Meghalaya, it stands as a pioneering accomplishment and a source of pride, placing the state on the country’s semiconductor map.