National Quantum Mission (NQM)

The Union Cabinet, approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) on 19^th April 2023 at a total cost of Rs.6003.65 crore from 2023-24 to 2030-31, aiming to seed, nurture and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT). This will accelerate QT led economic growth, nurture the ecosystem in the country and make India one of the leading nations in the development of Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA).

The Mission objectives include developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years in various platforms like superconducting and photonic technology. Satellite-based secure quantum communications between ground stations over a range of 2000 kilometers within India, long-distance secure quantum communications with other countries, inter-city quantum key distribution over 2000 km as well as multi-node Quantum networks with quantum memories are also some of the deliverables of the Mission.

The National Quantum Mission focuses on developing magnetometers with high sensitivity in atomic systems and Atomic Clocks for precision timing, communications, and navigation. It also supports the design and synthesis of quantum materials such as superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and topological materials for the fabrication of quantum devices. Single photon sources/detectors, and entangled photon sources will also be developed for quantum communications, sensing, and metrological applications.

Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs):

Four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) have been established under NQM to strengthen India’s position as a global leader in quantum technology. These hubs focus on key areas: Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices. The web-link of these four T-Hubs are given below:

Four Thematic Hubs

Institutions supported under NQM

"152 researchers from 43 Institutions (Lead & Member) across 17 states and 2 UTs involved in the 14 TGs"

Startup support under NQM

The NQM has actively engaged with startups to foster innovation and accelerate the development of quantum technologies in India. Recognizing that quantum technologies are still in their nascent stage and require substantial investment, NQM formulated exclusive guidelines464.94 KB to effectively onboard and support startups in this domain and eight promising startups have been supported. This initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening the quantum startup ecosystem and driving technological advancements in the country. In addition, rolling call for supporting startups in this domain are underway through four T-Hubs.

Capacity Building in Quantum Technologies

To strengthen capacity building in quantum technologies, curriculum for B.Tech 791.21 KBMinor and M.Tech 2.38 MBin Quantum Technology have been developed in collaboration with AICTE.

Ongoing activities

Quantum Technology Cell (QTC)