New Delhi, Aug. 15 -- Industry leaders have welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day focus on manufacturing, semiconductors and MSMEs, saying the push for domestic capabilities and greater access to global markets can strengthen India's position in global value chains and support the next phase of economic growth.

Reacting to the Prime Minister's address from the Red Fort, industry representatives highlighted the semiconductor sector as a key area where India can move from dependence on external suppliers towards greater technological capability and global leadership.

Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman, ICEA, said the Prime Minister's commitment to adding five to eight semiconductor plants over the next seven to eight years mark...