India’s Technological Leap: Launch of DHRUV64 Microprocessor

India has taken a significant step toward semiconductor self-reliance with the launch of DHRUV64, the country’s first fully indigenous 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor. Developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) under the Microprocessor Development Programme (MDP), DHRUV64 marks an important milestone in India’s efforts to build a robust, homegrown chip design ecosystem.

Designed to meet modern computing requirements, DHRUV64 offers improved performance, efficient multitasking, and high reliability. The processor is suitable for deployment across a wide range of applications, including 5G and telecom infrastructure, automotive electronics, industrial automation, strategic systems, consumer devices, and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms. Its flexible architecture enables easy integration with external hardware and system-level designs, making it a versatile solution for both commercial and strategic use cases.

DHRUV64 has been developed under the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Programme, which aims to promote indigenous processor development using the open-source RISC-V instruction set architecture. By adopting RISC-V, India can reduce dependence on proprietary technologies and licensing costs while fostering innovation among startups, academia, and industry. DHRUV64 is the third processor developed under this initiative, following earlier chips such as THEJAS32 and THEJAS64. More advanced processors, including Dhanush and Dhanush+, are already in the development pipeline.

India is one of the world’s largest consumers of semiconductor devices, and the availability of indigenous processors like DHRUV64 is crucial for reducing import dependence and strengthening supply-chain resilience. Beyond strategic benefits, the processor also serves as an accessible development platform for researchers, students, and startups, helping build skilled talent and encouraging innovation within the country.

Overall, the launch of DHRUV64 reinforces India’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and highlights the nation’s growing capabilities in advanced semiconductor design and system-level innovation.