Cong Accuses Modi Govt of Being Biased In Allocating Semi-Conductor Projects

The Congress party has accused the Modi administration of favouring certain states in semiconductor project allocations, raising concerns about fairness. Four projects were approved, with claims of relocations impacting Telangana and Tamil Nadu in favour of Gujarat.

The Congress party has criticised the Modi administration for allegedly favouring states governed by the ruling party when allocating semiconductor manufacturing projects. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh highlighted that four such projects have been approved in India. He claimed that a private company, after thorough research, applied for a project in Telangana but was asked to relocate to Andhra Pradesh.

Ramesh further alleged that similar relocations were previously enforced. Two semiconductor projects initially planned for Telangana were moved to Gujarat, and another intended for Tamil Nadu was also shifted to Gujarat. "Need anything more be said? The PM speaks of competition among states that will make India strong. But if the umpire is so blatantly biased, the competition becomes a farce," Ramesh commented.

Semiconductor Projects and Investments

Recently, the Union Cabinet sanctioned four semiconductor plants, including one supported by US tech giants Intel and Lockheed Martin. These projects involve a combined investment of Rs 4,594 crore and are set to be established in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Punjab. This decision follows Ramesh's remarks about bias in project allocation.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw elaborated on these new semiconductor initiatives approved by the Cabinet. He mentioned two significant projects will be located in Odisha, with one each in Punjab and Andhra Pradesh. Vaishnaw stated that chief ministers from Odisha and Andhra Pradesh contacted him post-approval to express their eagerness to commence construction promptly.

Project Timelines and Implementation

The minister assured that all these semiconductor plants are expected to become operational within two to three years. This timeline reflects the government's commitment to advancing India's semiconductor industry swiftly. The strategic placement of these plants aims to bolster regional development while enhancing India's technological capabilities.

The Congress party's allegations highlight concerns about equitable distribution of national resources across states. As India seeks to strengthen its semiconductor sector, ensuring fair opportunities for all regions remains crucial for balanced growth and development nationwide.