India, Aug. 15 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India has begun production at three semiconductor plants, with five to eight more expected to come up over the next seven to eight years.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the historic Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, Modi said India's semiconductor journey reflects the country's growing technological self-reliance.

Semiconductor chips are essential for electronics, healthcare, transportation and virtually every modern technology.

Modi noted that India had discussed semiconductor manufacturing for years but lacked large-scale production facilities.

Recognising the strategic importance of semiconductors, the prime minister said India has taken decisive steps...