"Sridhar Vembu of Zoho Eyes Rural Tenkasi for Semiconductor Design Project Launch"

In line with India's ambitious goals to establish itself as a significant semiconductor hub, Sridhar Vembu, the co-founder and CEO of Zoho, has expressed his interest in initiating a semiconductor design project in rural Tenkasi, located in southern Tamil Nadu.

Vembu hinted at this endeavor through a post on Twitter, responding to Ananthan Ayyasamy, a former Intel employee and the president of Tamil Nadu BJP's start-up cell, who is also a resident of Tenkasi.

In his social media post, Ayyasamy emphasized his dedication to ensuring the success of their alliance in Tenkasi, striving to usher in technology-driven prosperity to the region.

Acknowledging Ayyasamy's expertise in semiconductor technology, Vembu stated, "We have been planning a semiconductor design project in Tenkasi. Ananthan’s expertise in this field is unrivaled, and we will work together to create advanced chip design knowhow in this rural region."

Ayyasamy, also known as Tenkasi Ananthan, is renowned for his transition from a successful career in semiconductor technology in the United States to becoming an advocate for rural development in Tenkasi. He is the driving force behind 'Start-up Tenkasi' and envisions economic growth and technological innovation through infrastructural development. Ayyasamy holds degrees from NIT Trichy and Arizona State University (ASU) and possesses patents in semiconductor design.

Vembu, a patron of the Voice of Tenkasi Foundation, made the decision to relocate from San Francisco to the serene Mathalamparai village in Tenkasi in November 2019, demonstrating his commitment to rural upliftment and development amidst the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats.

HBL