Mumbai, May 29: Padma Shri awardee and IIT Bombay Professor Juzar Vasi emphasized the critical need for India to focus on the semiconductor and solar energy sectors for future development. He stated that these two industries will elevate the country’s economic and technological strength in the coming decades.
Professor Emeritus at IIT Bombay, Juzar Vasi received the Padma Shri award for over four decades of contributions in microelectronics and photovoltaics. Expressing his joy upon receiving the honor, he remarked, “This was completely unexpected for me, but I feel honored to receive this recognition.”
He openly supported Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India a global hub for chip manufacturing, stating that the country should have taken significant steps in this direction much earlier.
“I have been associated with this field since the late 1970s. The increasing focus on semiconductors in the country is very positive. The role of semiconductors is also crucial in the defense and military sectors,” Vasi noted.
He explained that semiconductors are essential for defense equipment and modern electronics, and many critical technologies are not readily available in the open market. Therefore, India must develop its own research and production systems.
Discussing solar energy, Vasi highlighted it as a sector where any country can strengthen its energy security. However, he stressed the need for technological advancements.
“To harness solar energy, solar modules and semiconductor solar cells are essential. It is encouraging that India is rapidly emerging as one of the world’s most significant solar energy nations. Not only in usage but also in the manufacturing of solar cells and modules, India is making strides,” he added.
On artificial intelligence (AI), he remarked that it is rapidly transforming the world, and India should not miss this opportunity.
“AI will have an impact in almost every sector. India has no shortage of talent. What is needed is for the country to move forward with a robust plan and establish itself among the leading nations in the field of AI,” he concluded.
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