India is actively exploring the potential of two-dimensional (2D) materials as a transformative leap in semiconductor innovation, according to a news report published by CNBC TV18 on June 30, 2025. The news report, citing a senior central government official, states that 2D materials are being recognized internationally as a critical frontier in semiconductor technology, and India is keen to position itself early in this emerging field

In contrast to the present 3nm chips produced by major players like Apple, Samsung, MediaTek, and Intel, chips built using 2D materials could surpass current size and performance limitations. The 2D materials—comprising layers just a few atoms thick—could enable the development of much smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient chips. Materials such as graphene, phosphorene, and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are at the forefront of global research in this domain.

At present, no country or company has achieved commercial-scale production of 2D material-based chips. Nonetheless, research efforts are underway in countries like the US, China, the UK, Germany, and Japan. India is now looking to become an early entrant in this high-potential space.

Reports indicate that India is preparing to issue a call for Expressions of Interest (EoIs) from both academic institutions and private industry. The objective is to facilitate the establishment of research and development hubs and pilot fabrication units dedicated to 2D materials.