- DRDO is leading a thematic session on 'Semiconductors & Next-Gen Chips' at ESTIC-2026. - Focuses on advancing indigenous semiconductor design and next-generation chip manufacturing for strategic and critical applications. - Highlights India's thrust toward technological self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in high-end electronics and defense systems. - **India Semiconductor Mission:** A specialised agency under MeitY tasked with spearheading India's semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem by providing financial incentives and building a resilient supply chain. - **DRDO:** The premier agency under the Ministry of Defence charged with military R&D, designing advanced weapon systems, and fostering indigenous technologies for national security. - **ESTIC-2026:** The Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave, a major multi-ministerial forum focusing on scientific advancements, critical tech, and the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. **Introduction** DRDO's leadership role in the thematic session on 'Semiconductors & Next-Gen Chips' at ESTIC-2026 underscores India's focus on indigenizing semiconductor manufacturing, fostering critical technologies, and achieving strategic self-reliance in electronics. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - DRDO is leading a thematic session on 'Semiconductors & Next-Gen Chips' at ESTIC-2026. - Focuses on advancing indigenous semiconductor design and next-generation chip manufacturing for strategic and critical applications. - Highlights India's thrust toward technological self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in high-end electronics and defense systems. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **India Semiconductor Mission:** A specialised agency under MeitY tasked with spearheading India's semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem by providing financial incentives and building a resilient supply chain. - **DRDO:** The premier agency under the Ministry of Defence charged with military R&D, designing advanced weapon systems, and fostering indigenous technologies for national security. - **ESTIC-2026:** The Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave, a major multi-ministerial forum focusing on scientific advancements, critical tech, and the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.