New Delhi buzzed with tech excitement on February 20, 2026, as India formally joined the US-led Pax Silica coalition at the India AI Impact Summit. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw signed the landmark deal, signaling a major push for secure semiconductor and AI supply chains.timesofindia.
What is Pax Silica?
Pax Silica, launched by the US in December 2025, unites nations to build resilient supply chains for semiconductors, AI, and critical minerals. "Pax" means peace, while "Silica" nods to silicon chips essential for tech.bhfs+1
Founding members include the US, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Netherlands, UK, Israel, UAE, and Australia. Now India strengthens this group, aiming to cut China dependency and foster trusted global tech partnerships.tribuneindia+2
The coalition covers everything from raw minerals to advanced manufacturing and logistics, creating a "positive-sum" framework for secure AI growth.economictimes+1
Signing at India AI Summit 2026
The pact was inked at Bharat Mandapam during the summit's fifth day. Vaishnaw highlighted India's readiness, noting 10 semiconductor plants underway, with the first set for commercial production soon.newindianexpress+1
US Ambassador Sergio Gor called the event "highly impactful," hinting at an upcoming Modi-Trump meeting: "Stay tuned—it will happen at the right time."
This timely move aligns with global AI trends, as PM Modi pushes India's "MANAV" vision for ethical tech at the summit.
Massive Job Creation in Semiconductors
Vaishnaw stressed the sector's hunger for 1 million skilled pros, with India poised to lead. "We have clear direction for global leadership in semiconductors," he said.telecom.economictimes.indiatimes+1
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Over 67,000 engineers trained already via 104 institutions.
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Targets 85,000+ more under Semiconductor Mission.
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Roles span design, fabrication, and logistics, creating 10 lakh jobs.telecom.economictimes.
India's chip design prowess, including 2nm tech, positions youth for high-demand careers.
Key Benefits for India
Joining Pax Silica supercharges India's tech ambitions.newindianexpress+1
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Supply Chain Security: Diversifies critical minerals away from single sources.
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AI & Infra Boost: Enables joint ventures in data centers and models.
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Economic Gains: Attracts investments, tech transfers for self-reliance.
Experts see it hedging risks, enhancing exports, and cementing India's spot in 21st-century alliances—where compute trumps oil.bhfs+1
This deal at AI Summit 2026 marks India's strategic tech leap, promising jobs and innovation for a resilient future.pib.gov+1
