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National Mission on Quantum Technolog… — Govt Scheme for UPSC | Vaidra
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National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications

Department of Science and TechnologyactivetechnologyLaunched: 2023-04-19

About the Scheme

National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications (NM-QTA) with ₹6,003 crore aims to build India's quantum computing, communication, sensing, and cryptography capabilities. Approved April 2023 in Budget 2023-24. 8 years duration. 4 hubs: technology, computational, applications, workforce development.

Target Beneficiaries: Research institutions, technology companies, defence, telecom, banking sectors; quantum workforce of 50,000+

Implementing Agency: Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science & Technology

Official Website →

✦Key Features

  • Budget: ₹6,003 crore over 8 years (2023-24 to 2030-31)
  • 4 Quantum Technology Hubs (Q-Hub): Technology, Computing, Applications, and Workforce Development
  • Focus areas: quantum computing, quantum communication (QKD), quantum sensing, quantum cryptography
  • Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) for secure government communications
  • Target: 50 qubit quantum computer by 2025-26; 100 qubit by 2030
  • Applications: drug discovery, financial modelling, logistics optimization, secure communications
  • Collaboration with ISRO, DRDO, CSIR, IITs, IISc, C-DAC

✓Eligibility Criteria

  • Public and private academic institutions and universities.
  • Government research organizations and laboratories.
  • Start-ups and industries with proven capabilities in quantum technology R&D.
  • Consortia of institutions and industry partners.

★Benefits

  • Achieving technological self-reliance in a critical and emerging field.
  • Creation of high-tech jobs and a skilled workforce for future industries.
  • Enhancement of national security capabilities through advanced encryption and sensing.
  • Stimulating economic growth by fostering new industries and applications.
  • Elevating India's global scientific and technological standing.

▶Application Process

  • Online submission of detailed project proposals through designated portals of the Department of Science and Technology.
  • Initial screening and technical evaluation by expert committees.
  • Presentation of proposals to a high-level apex committee for final approval.
  • Sanctioning of grants and signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
  • Regular monitoring, progress reporting, and milestone-based fund disbursement.
  • Periodic evaluation of project outcomes and impact.

₹ Budget Allocation

6003

Funding Ratio (Centre:State): Central Sector Scheme (100% Central Funding)

Exam Relevance

GS Paper: GS3

Prelims Relevance8%
Mains Relevance8%

Syllabus Tags

Science TechnologyQuantum ComputingEmerging TechnologyGS3

Historical Context

Announced in Union Budget 2020-21; Cabinet approval granted in April 2023 for an 8-year implementation cycle.

Exclusion Criteria

  • General-purpose traditional computing research is not covered
  • Projects without a clear 'Quantum-advantage' roadmap

Sub-Schemes

Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs)

Establishment of four research hubs across India focusing on specific quantum applications.

Challenges

  • Acute shortage of specialized quantum scientists and engineers
  • High cost of cryogenic cooling systems and specialized hardware
  • Long gestation periods for commercializing quantum lab prototypes
  • Geopolitical restrictions on dual-use technology imports

Reforms & Recommendations

  • Create a 'Quantum-Ready' workforce through interdisciplinary PhD programs
  • Establish a 'Quantum Sandboxing' policy for private sector participation

Performance Statistics

Metric

₹6,003.65 Crore

Source: DST Annual Report

Metric

8 Years (2023-31)

Source: PIB

Critical Analysis

NM-QTA is India's strategic entry into the 'Second Quantum Revolution'. Unlike the IT boom where India was a service provider, this mission aims for 'Atmanirbhar' status in hardware and foundational IP. The ₹6,003 crore allocation is competitive globally but faces a critical talent gap. The mission's success depends on the synergy between the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and private deep-tech startups. It focuses on four domains: Computing, Communications, Sensing, and Materials, which are vital for future cyber-security and drug discovery.

SDG Linkages

SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure)

Constitutional Backing

Article 51A (h) - Developing scientific temper

Technology Used

Superconducting QubitsPhotonic Quantum ComputingQuantum Key Distribution (QKD)

Success Stories

ISRO-DRDO QKD Achievement

Key Takeaways

  • Target: Developing intermediate-scale quantum computers (50-1000 physical qubits)
  • Establishment of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs)
  • Focus on indigenous development of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

Probable Questions

Quantum technology is no longer a theoretical concept but a strategic necessity. In this context, evaluate the objectives and potential impact of the National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications (NM-QTA).

Hard90%

Mains Answer Fodder

Keywords: 'Quantum Supremacy', 'QKD (Quantum Key Distribution)', 'Qubits', 'Quantum-Safe Cryptography'. Mention its role in 'National Security' (intercept-proof communication) and 'Economic Competitiveness' (optimizing supply chains/financial modeling). It places India among the elite group of 6 nations with dedicated Quantum missions.

Convergence Schemes

  • National Supercomputing Mission (NSM)
  • Deep Ocean Mission
  • Digital India

Sector Tags

Science and TechnologyStrategicDefenseComputing