The Ministry of Science & Technology has highlighted major strides in quantum research by Indian institutions and the rollout of the National Quantum Mission (NQM). The mission aims to build indigenous quantum hardware, develop algorithms, and create skilled manpower for strategic sectors.
Key Developments
- Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences, Pilani (Goa Campus) with IBM Research demonstrated a quantum algorithm for simulating the strong nuclear force on a 120‑qubit IBM processor. The simulation took 20 seconds, beating a classical supercomputer that needed about two hours. The result was logged in IBM’s Quantum Advantage Tracker.
- Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru created quantum key‑generation algorithms and a quantum walk algorithm for Dirac‑equation simulation. Validation was performed on IISc photonic hardware and on an ion‑trap system at the University of Maryland.
- The National Quantum Mission (NQM) has earmarked ₹6003.65 crore for eight years, establishing four Thematic Hubs covering Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices.
- Advanced fabrication facilities are being set up at IISc Bengaluru, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Delhi to support indigenous development of qubits, sensors, and quantum devices.
- MeitY launched Qniverse, a unified quantum computing platform integrated with high‑performance computing, enabling students, researchers and startups to design, simulate and run quantum algorithms on diverse hardware.
Important Facts
- 152 researchers from 43 institutions are working across 14 technical groups and 17 project teams.
- 23 Quantum Teaching Laboratories and AICTE‑supported UG Minor and M.Tech programmes are being introduced to build skilled manpower.
- Seventeen startups have received support under the mission’s national guidelines for quantum technology entrepreneurship.
- The mission targets quantum computers with 20‑50 physical qubits in 3 years, 50‑100 qubits in 5 years, and up to 1000 qubits by 2034‑35.
- Potential applications span defence, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, cybersecurity, finance, climate modelling and advanced materials research.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the National Quantum Mission is crucial for GS‑3 (Science & Technology) and GS‑2 (Polity) as it reflects government policy, inter‑ministerial coordination, and strategic investment in emerging tech. The mission’s focus on indigenous hardware and algorithms aligns with the ‘Make in India’ agenda and national security considerations, topics often asked in essay and answer‑type questions.
Way Forward
To sustain momentum, the government should strengthen industry‑academia linkages, expedite the commercialization of prototype quantum processors, and integrate quantum curricula across engineering colleges. Continuous monitoring of technology readiness levels will ensure that quantum solutions reach defence, health and climate sectors before 2031. Regular reporting to Parliament will maintain transparency and guide future budget allocations.