India Photonics Association (IPA)

Why in News?

India has established the India Photonics Association (IPA), which is described as the country's first independent, ecosystem-led photonics industry body.

• Aim – To promote innovation, industry collaboration, knowledge-sharing and policymaking in India's growing photonics sector.
• Photonics – It refers to the science and technology involved in generating, controlling, and utilizing light (photons).
• It encompasses the use of light to transmit, process, or detect information and energy.
• It enables high-speed, high-bandwidth, and low-loss data transmission.
• Distinction Between Electronics and Photonics
  • Electronics relies on the movement of electrons, or electric current, within semiconductor materials such as silicon.
  • Photonics utilizes light, specifically photons, transmitted through optical fibers, lasers, optical chips, and sensors.
• Photonics plays a critical role in the following areas:
  • Optical fiber communication
  • Data centers
  • Laser technology
  • Satellite communications
  • Medical equipment and devices
  • Sensor technologies
  • Semiconductor technologies
  • Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
• Market Potential – Recent industry reports indicate the following:
  • The Indian photonics market is estimated to reach USD 78.4 billion by 2025.
  • It is projected to grow to USD 155 billion by 2034.
  • Silicon photonics is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 29 percent.
• Significance
• Digital Economy – Photonics enhances India's data and communication infrastructure.
• Semiconductors – Silicon photonics integrates optical technologies with the semiconductor ecosystem.
• Strategic Technologies – Photonics applications span space, telecommunications, defense, healthcare, data centers, and supply chains.
• Policy Input – The industry body provides policymakers with technical expertise.

Reference

The Hindu | India Photonics Association (IPA)