HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Feb 25: India has formally signed the Pax Silica declaration during the AI Impact Summit, signalling its intent to be part of a new global technology framework centred on semiconductors, critical minerals and AI infrastructure.
The declaration was signed in the presence of Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, marking what industry leaders described as a significant step towards building trusted and diversified global technology supply chains.
Ashok Chandak, President of IESA and SEMI India, said Pax Silica represents a strategic shift in the global order, where cooperation in chips and AI infrastructure could replace conflict over technology.
He stated that while the 20th century’s geopolitical stability was shaped by oil and energy, the 21st century will be shaped by silicon, data and trusted supply chains.
According to Chandak, Pax Silica aims to create a resilient, democratic and diversified technology ecosystem to ensure that no single geography can disrupt the global flow of semiconductors and computing power.
He described the framework as a “Declaration of Independence for the global technology supply chain,” asserting that future technologies must be built on trust rather than coercion.
Highlighting India’s role, Chandak said the country is transitioning from being a large electronics consumer to becoming a global design and manufacturing partner.
With strong semiconductor design talent, a growing fabrication and packaging ecosystem, and rising domestic demand, India is positioned to serve as a trusted bridge between global technology blocs.
He said Pax Silica would strengthen India’s digital sovereignty by ensuring secure access to semiconductors and AI infrastructure, which are increasingly critical for defence, telecom, mobility and economic growth. Calling it a “Silicon Shield” for India, Chandak said the initiative would prevent supply disruptions that could hamper national growth.
He further stated that the alliance marks a shift from “Make in India” to “Design and Innovate in India – Create in India,” adding that the initiative would convert India’s engineering talent into a global workforce powering next-generation technologies. Industry leaders believe that beyond technology partnerships, Pax Silica could also drive large-scale high-value job creation and position India at the centre of the emerging global semiconductor and AI ecosystem.






