India joins US-led ‘Pax Silica’ alliance to boost AI and semiconductor supply chains

India formally joined the US-led Pax Silica alliance on Friday, signalling a major step in strengthening its engagement in artificial intelligence and critical technology supply chains. The signing took place on the sidelines of the Global AI Impact Summit 2026, held in the national capital, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and academics to discuss responsible AI governance and inclusive technological growth.

Alliance aims and strategic importance

The Pax Silica Declaration, launched by the US Department of State in December 2025, aims to create resilient supply chains for artificial intelligence and critical minerals among trusted allies and partners. By joining the initiative, India gains access to reliable semiconductor and AI technology supply chains, reducing dependency on China amid rising domestic demand.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor welcomed India’s participation, highlighting the strategic and economic significance of the partnership. “With India joining Pax Silica, we choose freedom, partnership, and strength. Innovation will thrive in free societies like Bangalore and Silicon Valley, not in states that use technology for surveillance and control,” Gor said.

Jacob Helberg, US Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, emphasised that the alliance reflects the link between economic and national security. He noted that collaboration under Pax Silica strengthens collective resilience against coercion and ensures the prosperity of participating nations.

Apart from the US, Pax Silica member nations include Australia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.

The meaning behind ‘Pax Silica’

The name Pax Silica draws from Latin, with pax meaning peace, stability, and long-term prosperity, and silica referring to silicon, the key component of computer chips that power AI. The initiative is designed to promote stable, secure supply chains for critical technologies, fostering economic security and sustainable technological growth among participating nations.

Resetting Indo-US relations

India’s entry into Pax Silica comes shortly after its participation in the Critical Minerals Ministerial convened by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier this month. Analysts view the move as part of a broader effort to reset bilateral ties following months of trade tensions, including the finalisation of an interim trade agreement.

Joining Pax Silica allows India to secure access to advanced AI and semiconductor technologies while navigating the geopolitical challenges posed by countries with larger manufacturing capabilities and resource bases.

The 2026 summit is the first global AI forum hosted in the Global South. India’s engagement at the event, alongside its formal commitment to Pax Silica, underlines New Delhi’s ambition to be a central player in shaping AI governance, supply chain security, and responsible innovation globally.

Union Minister for Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw attended the signing ceremony along with senior US officials, reflecting the high-level political and strategic importance of the partnership.

(With inputs from PTI)