India Launches National Quantum Mission to Propel Tech Advancement

India has officially launched the National Quantum Mission (NQM), allocating Rs 6003.65 crore over eight years to enhance quantum technologies and convert research into practical applications. This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), aims to position India as a global leader in the rapidly evolving field of quantum technology.

To anchor the mission, the DST has established four Thematic Hubs, each focusing on distinct areas of quantum research. The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru is dedicated to Quantum Computing, while IIT Madras, in collaboration with C-DoT, focuses on Quantum Communication. Additionally, IIT Bombay is advancing Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and IIT Delhi is concentrating on Quantum Materials & Devices. These hubs are essential for fostering technology development, fabrication, and collaborative research and development (R&D).

The NQM initiative brings together 152 researchers from 43 institutions, organized into 14 Technical Groups and 17 Project Teams. These researchers will work towards strengthening indigenous capabilities, including the establishment of two major quantum fabrication facilities at IISc Bengaluru and IIT Bombay. Smaller facilities will also be operational at IIT Delhi and IIT Kanpur. These centres will focus on developing superconducting, photonic, and spin qubit chips, as well as advanced sensor platforms and quantum materials.

Parliament has indicated that the total investment required for these facilities amounts to Rs 720 crore, with completion expected by 2028. The NQM is complemented by the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). Additionally, the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune is hosting a Technology Innovation Hub in Quantum Technologies with a budget of Rs 170 crore. This hub has developed a 20-qubit ion-trap quantum computing system and is facilitating experiments in quantum cryptography, sensing, NMR-based computing, and optics.

The NQM also emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship. It supports eight start-ups involved in computing, communication, sensing, and materials. The T-Hub at IIT Bombay has collaborated with the Quantum Ecosystems and Technology Council of India, signing agreements with industry players for innovations in lab-grown diamonds and nanopositioner technologies.

Education and human resource development are core aspects of this mission. The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has introduced undergraduate minor and M.Tech programs in Quantum Technologies. Furthermore, NQM has initiated calls for Quantum Teaching Laboratories and supports various fellowships, internships, and faculty training programs.

Parliament has highlighted that these initiatives will significantly expand India’s research capacity, empower start-ups, and establish world-class fabrication facilities. As a result, the National Quantum Mission aims to solidify India’s position as a frontrunner in quantum technologies, potentially transforming the landscape of technology development in the country.