Vikram-32: India’s Big Leap in Semiconductor Self-Reliance

हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए मेनू बार से हिंदी भाषा चयन करें।

What is Vikram-32?

VIKRAM3201, or Vikram-32, is a 32-bit microprocessor designed specifically for space applications like launch vehicles and satellites. Unlike processors in everyday devices, this chip is built for high-reliability tasks such as guidance, navigation, and mission control. Importantly, it has been fully designed and fabricated within India at SCL, Mohali.

Who Developed It and How?

• Developed by: ISRO’s Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), Mohali.
• Process Node: 180nm CMOS—proven, stable, and trusted for space missions.
• Toolchain: ISRO built its own development ecosystem with Ada language support, assembler, linker, simulator, and a C compiler under development. This shows India is building not only the hardware but also the supporting software ecosystem.

How Was It Tested on PSLV-C60?

The chip was tested during the PSLV-C60 mission on the POEM-4 (PSLV Orbital Experimental Module) platform. This allowed ISRO to validate Vikram-32 in real space conditions such as extreme temperatures, vibrations, and radiation. The test confirmed that the processor could handle actual mission functions in orbit.

Key Technical Features

• 32-bit architecture: Processes data quickly for navigation and control tasks.
• Floating-point support: Enables accurate calculations for trajectory and orbital dynamics.
• Ada language compatibility: Widely used in aerospace for safety-critical systems.
• Indigenous fabrication: Built in India, reducing supply-chain risks and dependence on foreign vendors.

Importance of Semicon India 2025 Launch

At the Semicon India 2025 event, Vikram-32 was officially handed over to PM Modi. The Prime Minister called semiconductors the “digital diamonds” of the 21st century, emphasizing India’s ambition to move from design to full manufacturing and become a reliable partner in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Why Is This Achievement So Important?

1. Self-Reliance: Reduces dependence on foreign space-grade processors, lowering costs and avoiding geopolitical restrictions.
2. Deep-Tech Capability: India has built not just a chip, but also the toolchain and validation infrastructure needed for long-term growth.
3. Ecosystem Impact: Alongside Vikram-32, ISRO also showcased other indigenous avionics and ICs, accelerating the move towards complete localization.
4. Global Message: The “digital diamond” narrative strengthens India’s position as a trusted global semiconductor hub.

Challenges Ahead

• Qualification and Scaling: The processor must be validated for longer missions, harsher radiation environments, and interplanetary exploration.
• Software Ecosystem: Broader support beyond Ada, especially with a robust C compiler, will help expand developer adoption.
• Commercial Expansion: Wider use in defense, avionics, and private space startups will increase production volumes and lower costs.

Outcome

The unveiling of Vikram-32 is more than just a chip launch—it’s a declaration of India’s arrival in space-grade semiconductor technology. Its successful in-orbit test on PSLV-C60 proves India can design, fabricate, and validate critical processors entirely within the country.

If the development ecosystem continues to grow, India’s vision of “Designed in India, Made in India, Trusted by the World” in semiconductors could soon become a reality.