India Unveils DHRUV64 Microprocessor

Why in News

India launched DHRUV64, its first fully indigenous 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor, marking a major milestone in Aatmanirbhar Bharat and indigenous chip design.

About DHRUV64

• Developer: Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC)
• Programme: Microprocessor Development Programme (MDP)
• Architecture: 64-bit, dual-core, RISC-V based
• Clock Speed: 1.0 GHz
• Nature: Fully indigenous (design-led development in India)

Key Features

• High efficiency and enhanced multitasking
• Improved reliability and robustness
• Seamless integration with diverse external hardware
• Suitable for both strategic and commercial applications

Applications

• 5G infrastructure
• Automotive electronics
• Consumer electronics
• Industrial automation
• Internet of Things (IoT)

Strategic Significance

• Strengthens India’s domestic semiconductor ecosystem
• Reduces dependence on imported microprocessors
• Supports critical digital infrastructure
• India consumes ~20% of global microprocessors, making indigenous capability crucial

DIR-V Programme

• Launched: April 2022
• Objective: Advance Aatmanirbhar Bharat and make India a global hub for Electronics System Design & Manufacturing (ESDM)
• Focus: Development of a full portfolio of RISC-V–based processors for:
  • Strategic
  • Industrial
  • Consumer applications

DIR-V Chips

1. THEJAS32 – Fabricated at Silterra, Malaysia
2. THEJAS64 – Manufactured at SCL, Mohali
3. DHRUV64 – Latest and most advanced

• Upcoming: Dhanush64 and Dhanush64+ (SoC variants)

India’s Indigenous Processor Ecosystem (Chronology)

Processor	Year	Institution	Key Use
SHAKTI	2018	IIT Madras	Strategic, space, defence
AJIT	2018	IIT Bombay	Industrial, robotics
VIKRAM	2025	ISRO–SCL	Space navigation & mission operations
THEJAS64	2025	C-DAC	Industrial automation
DHRUV64	2025	C-DAC	Strategic & commercial