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India’s Meteoric Rise in Mobile Manufacturing
Transformation in Production Capacity:
- From 2 to 300+ Units: In 2014, India had just 2 mobile manufacturing units; today, there are over 300 operational units nationwide, marking a massive expansion in domestic production.
- Local Production Surge: The share of mobile phones made in India has surged from 26% in 2014-15 to an impressive 99.2% today.
Economic Milestones:
- Manufacturing Value Explosion: The value of mobile phone manufacturing has skyrocketed from ₹18,900 crore in FY14 to ₹4,22,000 crore in FY24.
- Export Growth: Exports, which were negligible in 2014, have now crossed ₹1,29,000 crore, reflecting India’s growing prowess in the global market.
Employment and Industry Impact:
- Job Creation: The mobile and electronics manufacturing sector has generated around 12 lakh direct and indirect jobs over the past decade, significantly contributing to economic growth and employment generation.
- Deepening the Value Chain: The government is now focusing on moving deeper into the value chain, with initiatives aimed at boosting the production of semiconductor chips and other fine electronic components.
Government Initiatives and Strategic Vision:
- The ‘Make in India’ program has been pivotal in this transformation, driving self-reliance and strengthening the domestic manufacturing ecosystem.
- The launch of the India Semiconductor Mission and approval of major projects (by companies such as Micron, Tata Electronics, CG Power, and Keynes) underscore the commitment to establishing a robust semiconductor manufacturing base.
Policy Shifts and Economic Reforms:
- The transition from heavy reliance on imports to indigenous production reflects a significant policy turnaround from the restrictive economic policies prevalent between 1950 and 1990.
- These reforms are instrumental in enhancing self-reliance and positioning India as a key player in the global electronics market.
Global Manufacturing Hub Vision:
- The initiatives align with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming to transform India into a global manufacturing hub by boosting domestic production and increasing employment.
- The comprehensive focus on the entire value chain, from raw materials to high-tech components, is a strategic move to secure India's long-term competitive advantage.