Cover Story     

Published: April 30, 2024
Updated: April 30, 2024

‘David’ comes to chips party

Even as industry ‘Goliaths’ like the Tatas and the Murugappas lead India into the brand new world of semiconductor manufacturing with two plants in Gujarat and one Assam respectively, a feisty ‘David’ in the form of Rajendra Chodankar has dropped his hat in the ‘chip’ ring and is setting up the first semiconductor plant in Maharashtra.

His company, RRP S4E Innovation Pvt Ltd, has promoted RRP Electronics Ltd. which will build a $ 500 million plant in collaboration with a consortium of European companies.

A first-gen entrepreneur, Mr Chodankar’s strengths are his passion for R&D. He took the entrepreneurial plunge by shifting from an academic background of chemistry to technology and has contributed significantly in fields related to analytical and technical upgrades of electronic systems, spectrometry and metallurgical applications.

His expertise lies in offering medical devices, thermal imaging systems and night vision devices like cooled detector-based thermal images and cameras, uncooled detector-based thermal images and cameras, and weapon-drone cameras. Sky is not the limit for his innovative spirit.

Meet Rajendra Chodankar (64), a far-sighted techno-entrepreneur who is credited with putting Maharashtra on the semiconductor map of India. A brilliant chemistry student-turned-aerospace and electronics expert, his yen for research and innovation led him to create a state-of-the-art nano machining facility which set new industry standards in India. Furthermore, he has played a pivotal role in space exploration with groundbreaking technology and processes for crafting large telescopic mirrors.

Last month, Mr Chodankar laid the foundation stone in Navi Mumbai for the first semiconductor plant in Maharashtra. His company, RRP S4E Innovation Pvt Ltd, has promoted RRP Electronics which will construct an outsourced semiconductor assembly and testing facility (OSAT) in Navi Mumbai with an investment of $ 500 million in the next five years. The plant will be the first such facility in Maharashtra, and will be set up in collaboration with a consortium of unnamed European companies.

The plant will come up in three phases. In the first phase, a packaging facility will be set up with the support of HMT Micro Electronic and will commence revenue generation by virtue of assignments offloaded by the company’s technology partner from August 2024.

In the second phase, the company will set up a pilot fab facility by virtue of the support from its technology partner. The project is expected to be completed by December 2024.

During the third phase, the company will own the design strengths and the flexibility to take up new projects in addition to the ones owned by its technology partner. Its ultimate aim is to offer its own unique microbolometer sensors with 10 microns pixel resolution.

‘CHIP’ FRONTIER

Semiconductor (popularly known as ‘chips’) manufacturing has assumed immense importance of late and is considered as valuable as precious metals like platinum, gold and silver. In today’s automated world, any country that aspires to be a global power needs to have a strong semiconductor manufacturing base. At present, there are five major manufacturers of semiconductors — Taiwan (46% of global production), China (26 per cent), South Korea (12 per cent), the US (6 per cent) and Japan (2 per cent).

India is on the cusp of entering the semicon race and would like to emerge as an international chip powerhouse within 5 years. Last February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually launched three semiconductor fabrication plants – two in Gujarat and one in Assam. These plants are being set up by the leading industrial houses of the Tatas (western India) and the Murugappas (south India). Now, a feisty Rajendra Chodankar has jumped into the fray and setting up a semiconductor plant in Maharashtra.

Though Mr Chodankar is a first-gen entrepreneur, he is admirably far-sighted and dynamic. Research is his passion, and innovation is his core strength and his pursuit is his persistence. Though he was a brilliant student in chemistry and postgraduated in inorganic chemistry from Mumbai University, he quickly switched over to technology and started contributing significantly in the fields related to analytical and technical upgrades of electronic systems, spectrometry and metallurgical applications.

After working for around nine years, in 1990 he set up RRP S4E Innovation Pvt Ltd, a technology consulting company with design strengths in electro optics. His expertise lies in offering medical devices, thermal imaging systems and night vision devices like cooled detector-based thermal images and cameras, uncooled detector-based thermal images and cameras, weapon-drone cameras, and ‘aerem 100’ and ‘aerem 1000’.

NANO FINISH

RRP S4E is a leading Indian electro optics manufacturer and its core activities include design, development and deployment of electro-optic solutions for the Indian defence sector with a focus on night vision and surveillance equipment. With a state-of-the-art nano machining facility in India, the company crafts mechanical and optical components with unmatched accuracy, setting industry standards. Says Mr Chodankar with pride, "Mechanical components crafted by the company can boast an astonishing 1-micron tolerance and optical elements feature an exquisite 3nm surface finish. These achievements help us to re-define precision engineering. They have playing a vital role in space exploration, particularly in crafting large telescopic mirrors, as showcased in the 'MACE PROJECT'."

He adds, "With a manufacturing capability of 25,000 units per month, RRP -- whose bouquet of offerings includes reflex and thermal sights, artificial intelligence-based robotics and face recognition, counter-drone systems as well as handheld thermal images -- is comfortably poised to cater to the demand that would emanate from offices, hospitals, hotels, lifts, reception areas, schools, colleges, personal care and any enclosures, among others."

CUTTING-EDGE

The company has a rich product portfolio of over a dozen products which are innovative and products of cutting-edge technologies. These include:

Reflex sights:

Reflex sights PRM 25 and PR100 are optical sights that enable the user to see an illuminated projection of an aiming point or another image superimposed on the field of view while looking through an artificially reflecting glass element.

Telescopic sights

AP-371/AP37-C and Dhristi AP5 - 25 X offer all kinds of systems that need solid visual aiming in addition to magnification using telescopic sights. AP 37/ AP 37-C come

with durable lightweight telescopic sights with 4X / 5X magnification, 4.5 degree field of view, parallax free vision upto 500m and light weight of less than 500 grams. The Dhristi series is an upgraded version of the AP series with 5-25X zoom-in features and excellent variably magnification

II Tube Base Sights

The PNVM and PNVB are night vision devices tailored for low-light conditions. The PNVM, a monocular device, features Gen-2 Image Intensifier Tubes, IR and low battery indicators, and a 10-degree field of view. It can be used hands-free and offers enhanced visibility in extreme dark

ness. In contrast, the PNVB is a lightweight binocular with Gen-2 Image Intensifier Tubes, rubber winged eye cups, and a F1.2, 25.8mm lens system. Both devices offer reliable performance in low-light environments, with technical specifications covering various parameters such as magnification, resolution, and field of view

Thermal Sights and Devices

The PR82 Thermal Sight offers clear images and extended detection with 12-micron 640 x 480 thermal sensors and 3X optical magnification. MIL-STD compliant, it ensures reliability in low-light conditions. The PR 110MF Handheld Thermal Imager provides HD low-light CMOS detection, digital zoom, and GPS functionality for accuracy. Both devices offer advanced thermal detection for optimal performance

Long Range Camera

The VIRAJ 28 series provides versatile long-range surveillance with day and night vision capabilities. Equipped with high-resolution visible and thermal sensors, it offers clear imaging in diverse environments, meeting MIL-STD standards for reliability

Meanwhile, the VIRAJ C-LR features cooled sensor technology, day camera, and optional Laser Range Finder (LRF), ensuring optimal performance in challenging conditions. Detailed specifications cover range performance, pan-tilt features, and technical aspects for both models.

Antidrone ystem

The AVINYA PAP 1100 is a portable anti-drone gun designed for quick and effective neutralization of unauthorized drones using advanced RF disruption technology. Meanwhile, the AVINYA RRF 5000 is an advanced anti drone system that detects and disrupts radio signals, offering realtime drone detection and 'soft kill' neutralization without causing harm. These devices are crucial for military and law enforcement operations.

VTOL

The VTOL aircraft offers versatile capabilities for military missions, search and rescue, and rapid transportation, with the ability to operate from various platforms. It features robust payload capacity, sophisticated flight controls, and rapid deployment readiness. With autonomous control and advanced propulsion systems, it provides 3 hours of flight duration and includes HD and LWIR cameras for day and night operations, along with reliable communication options.

Payload Camera:

The VIHAAN V1 drone camera is ultra-lightweight and compact, designed for military use with high-resolution imaging and low power consumption. It offers compatibility with various lens sizes and features advanced capabilities like electronic fog penetration and digital zoom, making it ideal for tactical reconnaissance missions.

Awards, recognition galore

Mr. Rajendra Chodankar and his company RRP S4E Innovation have been showered with prestigious awards in recognition of his exceptional contributions to innovation and technology. erational efficiency, resulting in cost reduction and improved profit margins. Secondly, the company has resorted to diversification of revenue streams. When revenue in certain streams was on the decline, the company diversified its revenue streams or focused on higher-margin products/services. Thirdly, the company adopted a progressive pricing policy by optimizing products/service mix to enhance profitability

Some of these awards are: Atmanirbhar Bharat Award Lokshahi Sanman 2023 Indian Military Review Award National Excellence Award Rastrabhushan Sanman Wicasa 2023 Time Leading Entrepreneurs India’s greatest leaders

WINNING FORMULA

The company's financial performance has been heartwarming. Its revenues, which had declined from Rs 38.31 crore in fiscal 2022 to Rs 31.20 crore in fiscal 2023, have shot up to Rs 40.57 crore in fiscal 2024. Interestingly, while in fiscal 2023 revenues had increased by 18.5 per cent, EBITDA had shot up by 37.5 per cent - from Rs 12 crore in fiscal 2022 to Rs 16.5 crore. Profit before tax also noted a noticeable spurt of 31.4 per cent, shooting up from Rs.8.6 crore to Rs 11.3 crore. Profit after tax followed suit, rising by 37 per cent from Rs 6.2 crore to Rs 8.5 crore. For fiscal 2024, PAT has zoomed to Rs 13 crore.

According to Mr Chodankar, several factors have contributed to the spurt in profitability despite the drop in revenues during fiscal 2023. First, the company has implemented effective cost-cutting measures and improved opfourthly, it resorted to efficient resources allocation and achieving economies of scale. Summarising the management's dynamic policy changes, Mr Chodankar points out, "By focusing on cost management, revenue diversification, pricing optimization and efficient resource allocation, and leveraging economies of scale, the company has successfully improved its bottomline and delivered value to its stakeholders amidst a challenging operating environment."

And now, Mr. Chodankar has dared to foray into the manufacture of semiconductors in which large industrial houses have shown courage to enter. Mr. Chodankar and RRP S4E have promoted a new company styled as RRP Electronics which has endeavoured to pioneer semiconductor solutions. Mr. Chodankar, "our company will excel in testing, packaging, design and fabrication and it will cater to diverse applications including automobiles, telecom and imaging, ensuring cutting edge-age technological development. At RRP Electronics, we will spearhead the revolution of the semiconductor landscape with precise techniques, research and innovation, rapid prototyping and rigorous testing. Every effort of ours is aimed at fostering technological advancements for human progress". Needless to say, a new sun is rising on the industrial sky of Maharashtra and India.

Tendulkar-chips jugalbandhi !

The 25,000 sq ft facility situated at the TTC industrial area in Mahape, Navi Mumbai was inaugurated last month by Dr Anil Kakodkar, former Chairman of the Bhabha Atomic Energy Centre. The company is supported by global cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar. Said company chairman and CEO Rajendra Chodankar, “This ground-breaking endeavour signifies a monumental leap toward positioning Maharashtra as a global powerhouse in semiconductor innovation and manufacturing.”

Clearly elated with the unveiling of Maharashtra’s pioneering semiconductor facility by RRP Electronics Ltd, Mr Chodankar said, “This momentous occasion not only marks a significant stride in our technological journey but also symbolizes our unwavering commitment to driving innovation and shaping the future of semiconductor technology. With this monumental endeavour, we stand poised to revolutionize the industry landscape, cementing Maharashtra’s position as a global leader in semiconductor innovation. Together, we embark on a journey of relentless pursuit towards excellence, propelling RRP S4E and the nation to unparalleled heights of technological prowess and prosperity.”

Speaking from the chair, Dr Kakodkar said, “The inauguration of Maharashtra’s pioneering semiconductor facility marks a quantum leap in India’s technological prowess. I am honoured to be part of this transformative journey, propelling our nation towards unparalleled innovation and global leadership in semiconductor technology.”

Maintaining that “I am extremely happy to back technologies and entrepreneurs,” Sachin Tendulkar added, “We live in exciting times today, when India is building industries that positively impact the world tomorrow. My support for RRP Electronics Ltd.’ foray into semiconductors stems from this belief. I wish the team all the very best for their future endeavours.”

Making of a visionary first-gen techpreneur

Hailing from an average middle-class family, Rajendra Chodankar was dreaming big right from his childhood. He reminisces, “In my family all, were job-oriented people. My father, who was employed in a government organization, did not give us costly things; we had no car. We could not aspire to a luxury life. But my parents did give us noble ideas, taught us the philosophy of high thinking and simple living. As a result, I started thinking high and was ull of ideas as I was keenly interested in science in general and chemistry in particular. I graduated in chemistry and also did my post-graduation in chemistry with distinction.”

Though his family wanted him to get employed, get settled and live a middle- class life with a regular salary, the creative mind of Rajendra was dreaming of doing something new, some thing innovative and becoming an entrepreneur. But due to the economic condition of the family, he had to start work amidst his post-graduation study and this period stretched for 9 years. During this period he worked with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Toshniwal Bros, Exxon Chemicals (in Saudi Arabia) and Gannon Dunkerly. Finally in 1990, he was mentally ready to take his courage in both hands and do something on his own, charting a different path from his family tradition of a lifetime job. Mr Chodankar is a farsighted technology expert who visualized exciting future prospects for the defence and aerospace segment when nobody in the country had even an inkling of it. He set up RRP S4E Innovation Pvt Ltd, a company specializing in the manufacture of electro-optics systems.

He deployed electro-optic solutions for the Indian defence sector with a state-of-the-art nano machining facility in India, and his company started crafting mechanical and optical components with unmatched accuracy, setting industry standards. Industry observers were pleasantly surprised when the defence and aerospace segments were decontrolled and emerged as sunrise sectors. So far, Mr. Chodankar and RRP S4E have significantly contributed in all fields related to analytical, technical upgrades, electronic systems, spectrometry and metallurgical applications, among others. RRP S4E emerged as the first Indian company to have set up a nano machining facility, one of its kind in India under the brand name ‘MECHVAC’. Till date the company has delivered more than 30,000 mechanical components to the Department of Atomic Energy. Says an elated Mr Chodankar, “This technology is unique, mainly because it cannot only produce a mechanical component with a 1 micron tolerance over the entire part but also generate excellent surface finish to the extent of 3 nm.” For this nano machining facility, Mr Chodankar was nominated for a Padma Shri in 2022.

HIS MENTORS

A down-to-earth and humble Mr Chodankar openly admits that Dr Anil Kakodkar, a brilliant nuclear physicist and mechanical engineer and former Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and Director of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, whom he considers his mentor, contributed immensely in shaping his life. He says emotionally, “Dr. Kakodkar inspired me to work with utmost honesty, dedication and explore avenues for innovation.” Another great person who has inspired Mr Chodankar is Ratan Tata, supremo of the House of Tatas, whom he considers his ‘Dronacharya’. Two of Mr Tata’s inspirational quotes have significantly moulded Mr Chodankar’s philosophy of life. In fact, these quotes are among the ‘Jivanmantras’ of Mr Chodankar. Mr. Tata’s first quote is: ‘I don’t believe in taking right decisions. I take decisions and then make them right.’ And the second quote is: “If you want to walk fast, walk alone. If you want to walk far, walk together.” Maintains Mr Chodankar, “The first quote has made my decisions very swift. And I strive persistently to make them fruitful. The second quote has taught me to carry my team members with me in all decisions and their implementation.” Mr Chodankar strongly believes in a thought coined by himself. “Challenges only help you to go through, help you to get better and be prepared. “I religiously follow this thought as it has helped me a lot in shaping my life and business career.”

TELESCOPE TECH

In 2010, the company embarked on a project in MACE telescopes, jointly executed by the Astro Physics dept of BARC, wherein over 1,600 mirrors were produced using diamond-turning technology. Once this telescope is in use, BARC will certify the company as the only one in the world to have produced large- sized mirrors using diamond turning. Mr Chodankar notes, “The diamond turning technology created the platform for us to embark on manufacturing of components for electro optics systems, and it was the right move as we had come out of the National Asset domain and venture into commercialized projects.” Enthused by the remarkable success of RRP S4E Innovation, Mr Chodankar has taken a big leap and has promoted a new corporate entity styled RRP Electronics Ltd, which he would like to make a leading powerhouse in semiconductors. Says a thrilled Mr Chodankar, “Pioneering semiconductor solutions, our company will excel in testing, packaging, design and fabrication. We will cater to diverse applications, including automobiles, telecom and imaging, ensuring cutting- edge technological advancements. At RRP, we will spearhead the revolution of the semiconductor landscape.”

New generation enters the scene

New generation – Mr. Rajendra Chodankar’s two sons have joined the RRP group to support their father. While Mr. Raunaq Chodankar (33), younger son Mr. Anay Chodankar is being trained to take up the area of technical development. Raunaq graduated from Brunei University in London was in his earlier college days a passionate football player and had also represented Uk clubs.

Anay (26) a mechanical engineer and graduated from the Brunei University has mastered the coding skills through three his exposure in an assignment in Japan. Anay who is at present additional director at RRP S4E Innovation Ltd. was instrumental in designing the hardware for thermal scanner systems and was also responsible in selection of machinery and equipment for the OSAT project of RRP Electronics Ltd.