Mamata welcomes semi-conductor factory in Kolkata announced by Modi and Biden

The prospect of significant US investment in Kolkata has taken a positive turn, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s discussions with President Joe Biden about the establishment of a semiconductor fabrication plant. This joint venture, which is set to be built in Kolkata, has sparked excitement among local leaders, particularly Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who expressed pride in this development.

Chief Minister Banerjee has committed the West Bengal government to fully support the construction of the semiconductor facility, highlighting the relentless efforts made to attract such investments. She took to social media to share the backstory of this potential investment, emphasizing the state’s proactive measures to create an environment conducive to semiconductor manufacturing.

Banerjee noted that the State Information Technology Department and West Bengal Electronics Industry Development Corporation (WEBEL) had reached out to various semiconductor companies since last year, especially as startups in chip designing and packaging began relocating to WEBEL IT Parks during the pandemic. This initiative laid the groundwork for the upcoming investment.

The recent Global VLSI Conference 2024, held in Kolkata, played a crucial role in bringing attention to the state's capabilities. Leading semiconductor firms like Global Foundries, Synopsis, and Micron participated, engaging in discussions about technology and investment opportunities in the region. These efforts culminated in a proposal from Global Foundries to set up a Global Capability Centre in West Bengal.

In her tweets, Banerjee expressed her gratitude for the international investment decision and reiterated her government's commitment to supporting the semiconductor sector's growth. She emphasized that Kolkata is poised to become a hub for knowledge-based industries, marking a significant milestone for the state. The Chief Minister assured that all possible assistance would be provided to facilitate this investment, reflecting a bright future for Kolkata as a center of technological advancement.