IISc-Led Semiconductor Training Initiative Records Massive Growth in Tribal Youth Participation Across India

The Semiconductor Training Program for Tribal Students, led by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) and supported by MY Bharat under the Department of Youth Affairs, has achieved a significant milestone in youth outreach and participation during its 2026 Phase-II implementation.

The initiative, coordinated through the Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE), IISc Bengaluru, aims to provide tribal students and faculty members with advanced exposure to semiconductor fabrication, nanoengineering processes, and emerging technologies. The program consists of an online self-paced learning module, lectures by IISc faculty experts, and a 10-day residential training program at IISc Bengaluru with free travel, lodging, and food support for participants.

The ongoing phase of the program has witnessed remarkable growth in participation due to extensive awareness campaigns and mobilization efforts undertaken by MY Bharat field functionaries, State Directors, District Youth Officers, and volunteer networks across the country. Applications by MY Bharat youth increased from 992 in the previous phase to 5,654 applications in the current phase, registering a growth of 518 percent. Participation expanded from 32 States to 34 States, while district participation increased from 411 districts to 648 districts nationwide.

The initiative has also recorded a substantial rise in women participation in STEM-related programs. Female participation increased from 268 applications in the previous phase to 1,741 applications in the current phase, reflecting a growth of more than 549 percent and indicating growing interest among tribal women in emerging technology sectors.

The outreach campaign included virtual orientation sessions, coordination with technical universities and institutions, activation of youth networks, and targeted awareness drives among tribal student communities. Technical universities such as Chhattisgarh Swami Vivekanand Technical University (CSVTU) partnered in expanding outreach efforts to engineering, polytechnic, and pharmacy institutions to ensure wider participation among eligible tribal students and faculty members.

Officials associated with the initiative stated that the program is expected to strengthen technical competencies, research orientation, and industry readiness among tribal youth, thereby contributing to India’s expanding semiconductor ecosystem and future technology workforce. The initiative reflects a strong collaborative effort between IISc Bengaluru, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, MY Bharat, and educational institutions to ensure inclusive participation in advanced scientific and technological sectors.