RAS question
India's first indigenous 32-bit space-grade microprocessor unveiled at Semicon India 2025 was developed by which organisation?
Correct answer: (D) ISRO's SCL Chandigarh.
Vikram 3201, India's first indigenous 32-bit space-grade microprocessor, was developed by ISRO's Semiconductor Laboratory, Chandigarh, in collaboration with ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.
Explanation
ISRO's March 2025 note says the first production lots of VIKRAM3201 and KALPANA3201 were handed over at a New Delhi function organised by SCL, Chandigarh. ISRO records that these 32-bit microprocessors for space applications were designed and developed by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre of ISRO in collaboration with SCL, Chandigarh. The organisation-linked answer is ISRO's SCL Chandigarh, not a general academic or defence body. ISRO describes VIKRAM3201 as the first fully Make-in-India 32-bit microprocessor qualified for the harsh environmental conditions of launch vehicles, and it was fabricated at SCL's 180 nm CMOS semiconductor fab.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) IIT Delhi did not develop VIKRAM3201; ISRO's VSSC developed it in collaboration with SCL, Chandigarh.
- (B) CDAC was not the developer of VIKRAM3201; the development context is ISRO's VSSC with SCL, Chandigarh.
- (C) DRDO was not the developer of VIKRAM3201; ISRO's VSSC and SCL, Chandigarh, handled the development.
Concept
This tests indigenous semiconductor capability in India's space programme, a recurring RAS Science and Technology theme because it connects space applications with self-reliance in critical electronics. The examiner expects recognition of the institution behind a current technology milestone, not just the chip's name.