Cyient Limited , in collaboration with Azimuth AI, has launched India's first-generation IP powered silicon chip, the Arka GKT-1. This groundbreaking development marks a significant milestone in India's journey towards self-reliance in semiconductor design and deep-tech innovation.

Key Features of Arka GKT-1

The Arka GKT-1 is an intelligent-power platform-on-a-chip designed for high-efficiency edge AI and smart energy applications. Here are some of its notable features:

• Integrates multi-core custom computing, advanced analog sensing, memory, and intelligent power management
• Designed for smart utilities, advanced metering, battery management, smart cities, and industrial automation
• Brings real-time intelligence to the edge while maintaining exceptionally low power consumption
• Built on Azimuth AI's Software-Defined Silicon architecture
• Combines Cyient Semiconductors' domain-leading mixed-signal, power, and low-energy ASIC expertise

Significance of the Launch

The launch of Arka GKT-1 is a pivotal step for India's technology sector, demonstrating the country's growing capabilities in semiconductor design. Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Hon'ble Union Minister for Electronics & IT, unveiled the chip, emphasizing its importance in showcasing India's ability to develop world-class semiconductor technologies for critical global industries.

Collaborative Effort

The development of Arka GKT-1 is a result of collaboration between Azimuth AI and Cyient Semiconductors. This partnership has produced a globally competitive, energy-efficient chip tailored for demanding edge applications.

Market Impact and Future Prospects

The Arka GKT-1 is expected to address high-growth markets such as smart utilities, energy management, battery systems, and industrial intelligence. This breakthrough sets the stage for large-scale deployment and commercialization, potentially positioning India as a key player in the global semiconductor industry.

Expert Insights

Krishna Bodanapu, Executive Vice-Chairman & Managing Director of Cyient Semiconductors, stated, "The ARKA GKT-1 represents a defining leap in India's semiconductor journey. It reflects our mission of building a strong domestic semiconductor value chain under the India Semiconductor Mission."

Praveen Yasarapu, Founder & CEO of Azimuth AI, added, "ARKA GKT-1 is the realization of our vision to bring intelligent, low-power silicon to the edge. This milestone validates our technology roadmap and sets the stage for large-scale deployment and commercialization."

As India continues to make strides in the semiconductor industry, developments like the Arka GKT-1 showcase the country's potential to become a global leader in chip design and manufacturing. This innovation not only contributes to India's self-reliance in technology but also opens up new possibilities for advancements in edge AI and industrial intelligence.

In a significant move towards digital empowerment and skill development in India's North-East region, Cyient Foundation, in collaboration with SIDBI Swavalamban Foundation, has established an AI Future Skills Center of Excellence at the Nagaland Tool Room & Training Centre (NTTC) in Dimapur. The center, inaugurated by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, aims to accelerate AI-driven skilling and employability in the region.

Key Highlights of the Initiative

• Location: Nagaland Tool Room & Training Centre (NTTC), Dimapur
• Partners: Cyient Foundation and SIDBI Swavalamban Foundation
• Objective: To empower local youth with future-ready digital and technological skills
• Annual Training Capacity: 200-240 youth
• Employment Projection: 75% of graduates expected to find employment or become self-employed within three months

Training Programs and Impact

The Center of Excellence will offer AI-integrated skilling programs across various domains:

The initiative aims to bridge employability gaps, promote entrepreneurship, and foster digital inclusion in the North-East region. It supports national missions such as Digital India, Skill India, and Viksit Bharat 2047, contributing to India's efforts in equipping its workforce with advanced technology capabilities.

Collaborative Effort and Support

The project has been executed through a collaborative effort:

• Cyient Foundation: Conceptualized, designed, and implemented the project as the Program Management and Implementation Partner
• SIDBI Swavalamban Foundation: Provided funding support for infrastructure, AI simulation labs, and digital classrooms
• NITI Aayog: Identified the need for integrating AI and emerging technologies into skilling programs for unemployed youth in developing states

Long-term Vision and Impact

Dr. BVR Mohan Reddy, Founder Chairman of Cyient Limited, emphasized the importance of empowering youth with digital and technical skills for India's future. The initiative aligns with Cyient Foundation's vision of "Empowering Tomorrow Together" and builds on their track record of digital literacy and education programs.

Mr. Sudatta Mandal, Deputy Managing Director of SIDBI, highlighted the collaboration's commitment to building a digitally skilled and self-reliant India, aiming to create a scalable model for technology-led livelihood generation.

This initiative not only addresses the immediate need for skilled professionals in AI and future technologies but also contributes to the broader goals of inclusive growth and digital transformation in India's North-East region.