What is the India-U.S. Critical and Emerging Technologies Initiative (iCET)?
iCET is a collaborative framework established by India and the U.S. to enhance cooperation in critical and emerging technologies, aiming to create open, secure, and resilient tech ecosystems. This initiative focuses on areas like semiconductors, telecommunications, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence.
What are the goals of the iCET?
The primary goals are to build technology value chains based on mutual confidence and trust, reinforce shared democratic values, and foster industrial cooperation in critical technologies through joint ventures and research collaborations.
What specific areas of technology does the iCET cover?
iCET covers several key sectors including semiconductors, telecommunications (specifically 5G/6G and Open RAN technologies), quantum technologies, and high-performance computing.
How does iCET propose to enhance semiconductor collaboration between India and the U.S.?
The initiative supports the development of resilient semiconductor supply chains and the establishment of semiconductor design, manufacturing, and fabrication ecosystems in India. It encourages joint ventures and technology partnerships particularly focused on mature semiconductor technology nodes and chip packaging.
What measures are being taken to advance telecommunications between the two nations?
India and the U.S. are focusing on secure and trusted telecommunications, establishing joint task forces for 5G/6G and Open RAN technologies to promote standards development, R&D collaboration, and field trials.
What are some significant investments from U.S. companies in India as part of iCET?
Major U.S. tech firms like Micron Technology, Lam Research, Applied Materials, Google, Microchip Technology, and Advanced Micro Devices have announced significant investments in India's tech sector, ranging from semiconductor manufacturing to workforce development and R&D.
How does the cooperation extend to quantum technologies and computing?
The partnership extends to quantum technologies through platforms like the Quantum Entanglement Exchange for academic exchanges and the Quantum Economic Development Consortium. In computing, the collaboration includes India’s participation in the U.S. Accelerated Data Analytics and Computing (ADAC) Institute to enhance high-performance computing capabilities.
What is the broader impact of iCET?
iCET aims to support technological development, enhance economic growth, and foster innovation across both nations. It serves as a foundation for strengthening bilateral relations through strategic trade, technology transfer, and collaborative research.
This FAQ aims to clarify the scope and impact of the India-U.S. cooperation on critical and emerging technologies under the iCET framework.
SRIRAM's