Over 32 companies seek PLI for IT Hardware scheme to manufacture locally

Over 32 international electronics companies have applied to participate in India's production-linked incentive (PLI) programme to manufacture laptops, tablets, and servers within the country. This news comes just weeks after the Indian government announced restrictions on laptop imports.

Launched in May, this $2 billion program offers incentives to companies that manufacture IT hardware in India. The program aims to reduce the country's dependence on imports and strengthen the local manufacturing ecosystem.

This push aligns with the "Make in India" initiative, which aims to encourage global companies to set up their manufacturing units or form joint ventures with Indian firms.

According to Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the companies that have applied to produce laptops, tablets, and other products in India include industry giants such as Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co, Dell Technologies, Asus, Acer, and Lenovo.

"We anticipate an incremental investment of 24.3 billion rupees ($294.24 million) and the creation of around 75,000 direct jobs through this initiative," he stated.

Interestingly, Apple has not applied for the PLI scheme to manufacture its Macbook and Mac computers in India. Apple currently manufactures Macbooks in China and Taiwan. Earlier this year, Apple was reportedly in talks with suppliers to manufacture Macbooks in Thailand. But it seems like the Cupertino giant has no plans to expand its laptop production to India anytime soon.

The recent move by the Indian government to impose a licensing requirement for imports of laptops, tablets, and personal computers is expected to create employment opportunities for the Indian workforce.