From Smartphones to Laptops: India’s IT Transformation

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched Syrma SGS Technology's state-of-the-art laptop assembly line in Chennai, marking a significant milestone in India’s electronics manufacturing sector. The facility underscores the growth of India’s IT hardware production, fueled by the PLI 2.0 scheme.

In a significant milestone for India’s electronics manufacturing industry, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated Syrma SGS Technology’s cutting-edge laptop assembly line in Chennai. This facility marks India’s growing leadership in IT hardware production, expanding its success in mobile manufacturing to include high-value electronics like laptops. Supported by the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) 2.0 scheme, India is taking substantial strides towards becoming a global IT hardware hub.

Key Highlights of the Assembly Line

Location: Madras Export Processing Zone (MEPZ), Chennai.
Production Capacity: Initially 100,000 laptops per year, with potential to scale up to 1 million within 1-2 years.
Global Collaboration: Partnership with Taiwanese tech giant Micro-Star International (MSI).
Employment Impact: Expected to create 150-200 specialized jobs by FY26.
Quality Standards: Laptops produced will adhere to global quality and innovation standards.

India’s Electronics Manufacturing Growth

Exponential Growth: Total electronics production rose from ₹2.4 lakh crore in 2014 to ₹9.8 lakh crore in 2024.
Mobile Manufacturing Success: Reached ₹4.4 lakh crore, with ₹1.5 lakh crore in exports in 2024.
Local Production: 98% of mobile phones used in India are manufactured domestically.

Tamil Nadu: A Key Contributor

Major Hub: 47 manufacturing units supported by MeitY under various schemes.
PLI 2.0 Impact: Seven out of 27 approved units under PLI 2.0 are located in Tamil Nadu.

Schemes Supporting Growth

SPECS (Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors): ₹1,200 crore allocated to promote electronic components.
M-SIPS (Modified Special Incentive Package Scheme): ₹15,000 crore investment potential, with ₹1,500 crore support from MeitY.
EMC Cluster (Electronic Manufacturing Clusters): Located in Sriperumbudur, attracting ₹8,700 crore in investments and generating 36,300 jobs.
iPhone 16 Pro: Manufactured in Tamil Nadu, highlighting India’s expertise in high-end electronics.

PLI 2.0 for IT Hardware

Launch Date: May 29, 2023.
Incentives: Provides a 5% incentive for eligible companies.
Covered Products: Laptops, tablets, servers, all-in-one PCs, and ultra-small form factor devices.

Projected Outcomes: