India Launches Dhruv64, Its First 64-bit 1GHz Processor for Strategic and Defence Use

India has taken a significant leap in semiconductor technology with the launch of Dhruv64, the country’s first 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor. Developed by C-DAC, the chip is expected to strengthen self-reliance in critical sectors like defence and high-performance computing.

What is Dhruv64?

Dhruv64 is India’s first homegrown 64-bit dual-core 1.0 GHz microprocessor, developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) under the Microprocessor Development Programme (MDP).

According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the chip’s launch is part of broader government initiatives, such as the Digital India RISC-V program, which promotes the design, testing, and prototyping of indigenous chips. Dhruv64 is the result of these efforts, prioritising domestic technology to meet India’s national and strategic needs.

The microprocessor is designed for both commercial and strategic applications, helping reduce dependence on imported processors for critical infrastructure sectors, particularly in defence and high-performance computing. PIB data notes that India consumes 20% of all microprocessors manufactured globally, making a homegrown alternative crucial for startups, academia, and industry.

Why Dhruv64 is a Game-Changer for India

While India has launched smaller-scale chip projects in the past, Dhruv64’s 64-bit architecture and 1.0 GHz dual-core design represent a major technological leap. The processor’s enhanced performance allows it to support a wide range of applications, including:

• Embedded systems

• High-performance computing tasks

• Critical defence infrastructure

• Industrial automation

The new architecture ensures modern, secure, and efficient hardware tailored to India’s unique requirements, paving the way for advanced domestic semiconductor solutions.

Impact on India’s Semiconductor Ecosystem

The launch of Dhruv64 is expected to:

• Reduce dependency on foreign processors

• Encourage local startups and academia to adopt indigenous solutions

• Expand India’s capabilities in high-performance computing and defence technology

• Inspire further investment in chip design and innovation

Following Dhruv64, next-generation indigenous processors, including Dhanush and Dhanush+, are already under development. These upcoming chips are expected to further bolster India’s self-reliance in strategic technology sectors.

Recent Developments and Context

Dhruv64 was launched just a few months after ISRO unveiled the Vikram 32-bit chip, showing a rapid progression in India’s indigenous semiconductor efforts. These initiatives reflect a strategic push by the government to enhance domestic capabilities in critical industries and national defence.

Conclusion

With Dhruv64, India has achieved a milestone in semiconductor self-reliance, setting the stage for future advancements in high-performance, secure, and homegrown technology solutions. The momentum from this launch is expected to drive further innovation and investment, ensuring that India can increasingly meet its critical industrial and defence technology needs indigenously.