India Unveils Its First 1.0 GHz, 64-Bit Dual-Core Microprocessor

With the successful development of DHRUV64, the country's first indigenous 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core architecture microprocessor, India has reached a significant milestone. Under the Microprocessor Development Programme (MDP), the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) develops the semiconductor. It is claimed that DHRUV64 offers a dependable, entirely domestic processor technology that can support both commercial and strategic applications.

The DHRUV64 is based on contemporary architectural elements that are intended to provide increased productivity, improved multitasking capabilities, and increased dependability in a variety of applications. The microprocessor can be used in consumer electronics, automotive systems, 5G infrastructure, industrial automation, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

The official statement claims that DHRUV64 utilizes contemporary fabrication technologies, making it easy to interface with various external hardware systems. In essence, microprocessors are the "brains" of contemporary electronic devices like computers, mobile phones, satellites, and even defence systems. Approximately 20% of all microprocessors produced worldwide are consumed in India, and this milestone will allow India to become less dependent on foreign suppliers for its use cases.

In essence, DHRUV64 becomes a member of the growing family of Indian processors created in recent years:

1. Strategic, space, and defense applications are the main focus of SHAKTI (2018, IIT Madras).
2. AJIT (2018, IIT Bombay): Robotics and industrial applications.
3. VIKRAM (2025, ISRO–SCL): Designed to endure harsh space conditions.
4. THEJAS64 (2025, C-DAC): Designed to automate industrial processes.

The Dhanush and Dhanush+ SoCs, the next generation of RISC-V processors that C-DAC is currently developing, are expected to expand the range of domestic options available for both strategic and commercial use.