The Union Cabinet, chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) with a budget provision of US$ 729.99 million (Rs. 6,003 crores) for a period of eight years from 2023-24 to 2030-31. The aim of this mission is to establish India as a leader in the development of quantum technologies and applications. The mission will develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50–1000 physical qubits in various platforms like superconducting and photonic technology, atomic clocks for precise timing, communications, and navigation, and magnetometers with high sensitivity.
The Department of Science and Technology will implement the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in collaboration with other departments. The mission's deliverables include satellite-based secure quantum communications between ground stations within India over a 2,000-kilometer range, long-distance secure quantum communications with other countries, inter-city quantum key distribution over 2,000 kilometers, and multi-node quantum networks with quantum memories.
Four thematic hubs (T-Hubs) will be established in leading university and national research and development institutes in the disciplines of quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum materials and devices. This will accelerate quantum technology-led economic growth in India and benefit sectors such as communication, health, pharmaceutical, financial, and energy sectors, as well as defence data security.
The implementation of the National Quantum Mission (NQM) will position India as the sixth nation with a dedicated quantum mission, joining the US, Austria, Finland, France, and China.
The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a significant step towards establishing India as a leader in quantum technology. With the mission's implementation, India will create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and encourages the development of cutting-edge quantum technology. This initiative will strengthen India's position in the global market and provide a boost to the economy.
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