Startup supported by DST under NQM demonstrates 500 km Quantum-Safe Network

Overview A startup supported under the National Quantum Mission (NQM) of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has successfully demonstrated India's first extensive Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network, spanning over 500 kilometers . This achievement marks a significant milestone in quantum-secure communication. Key Developments QKD Network Demonstration The major achievement by the Bangalore-based quantum technology company, QNu Labs Pvt. Ltd. , involves a network deployed over existing optical fiber infrastructure. This demonstration positions India as a key player in the second quantum revolution, opening new horizons for secure digital communication and advanced cybersecurity. ESTIC 2025 Announcement A formal announcement about the demonstration of the QKD network spanning over 500 kilometers was made on the sidelines of the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2025) . Dignitaries including Dr. Jitendra Singh , Prof. Ajay K. Sood , Dr. Ajai Chowdhry , and Prof. Abhay Karandikar were present. Collaboration and Support This demonstration was made possible under a project funded through the I-Hub Quantum Technology Foundation , a Technology Innovation Hub under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NMICPS) hosted at IISER Pune . The Indian Army and its Southern Command contributed significantly by providing access to their fiber network in the Rajasthan Sector. QSIP Presentation QSIP (Quantum Random Number Generator System in Package) , by QNu Labs , was presented to the Prime Minister during his inaugural address at ESTIC 2025 . This technology provides India with quantum-certified randomness, crucial for cryptographic algorithms. UPSC Relevance GS3: Science and Technology This development directly aligns with GS3: Science and Technology , specifically in the areas of cybersecurity and emerging technologies. The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a key initiative for promoting research and development in quantum technologies. GS3: Infrastructure The deployment of the QKD network over existing optical fiber infrastructure highlights the importance of leveraging existing infrastructure for advanced technological applications. This relates to GS3: Infrastructure . GS3: Cybersecurity The QKD technology and QSIP contribute significantly to enhancing India's cybersecurity capabilities, addressing both current and future quantum-based cyber threats. This is highly relevant to GS3: Cybersecurity . Key Takeaways Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): A secure communication method that uses quantum mechanics to encrypt and transmit data. National Quantum Mission (NQM): A government initiative to promote research and development in quantum technologies. QNu Labs: A Bangalore-based startup specializing in quantum technology. ESTIC 2025: A conclave focused on emerging science, technology, and innovation. QSIP: A Quantum Random Number Generator System in Package, providing quantum-certified randomness for cryptographic algorithms.