Introduction
The Indian government has allocated ₹427 crore budget for the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in the fiscal year 2024-25, marking a significant financial commitment to advancing quantum technology in the country.
This new allocation contrasts sharply with last year’s budget of zero for this initiative, underscoring the government’s heightened focus on this cutting-edge field.
Overview of the National Quantum Mission
The National Quantum Mission is a high-priority initiative that promotes scientific and industrial research in quantum technology (QT).
Announced in the Budget speech for 2020-21 with an initial cost estimate of ₹8,000 crore, the Union Cabinet approved the mission on April 18, 2023, with a revised budget of ₹6,003 crore. The ₹427 crore budget support for the mission will fund activities from 2023-24 to 2030-31.
The mission aims to drive R&D efforts, fostering a dynamic and innovative quantum technology ecosystem in India. This initiative will boost economic growth through quantum technology and establish India as a global leader in developing and applying quantum technologies.
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Key Objectives and Focus Areas
1. Development of Quantum Computers
One of the mission’s primary objectives is to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers. These machines are anticipated to have between 50 to 1,000 physical qubits. The mission will explore various platforms, including superconducting and photonic technologies, to achieve this goal within the next eight years. The advancement in quantum computing is expected to have significant implications for complex problem-solving and computational capabilities.
2. Quantum Communication Infrastructure
The NQM aims to establish satellite-based secure quantum communications across India. This will include inter-city quantum key distribution (QKD) over distances exceeding 2,000 km and creating multi-node quantum networks with quantum memories. Additionally, long-distance secure quantum communications with other countries will be a focus, enhancing global quantum connectivity.
3. Quantum Sensing and Metrology
The mission will develop highly sensitive magnetometers and atomic clocks for precise timing, communication, and navigation applications. These advancements are crucial for improving the accuracy and reliability of various technologies and systems that rely on precise measurements.
4. Quantum Materials and Devices
Efforts will be directed towards designing and synthesizing quantum materials, such as superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and topological materials. These materials are essential for fabricating advanced quantum devices. The mission will also focus on developing single photon sources/detectors and entangled photon sources, which are fundamental for quantum communications and sensing applications.
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Establishment of Thematic Hubs
The National Quantum Mission will create four thematic hubs, each focusing on a distinct aspect of quantum technology:
- Quantum Computing Hub
- Quantum Communication Hub
- Quantum Sensing and Metrology Hub
- Quantum Materials and Devices Hub
In January 2024, officials issued a call for pre-proposals to establish these hubs. A brainstorming session in February 2024 involved about 400 quantum science researchers and technologists.. The establishment of these hubs will facilitate collaboration among multiple institutions and enhance research capabilities in quantum technology.
Expert Insights and Future Prospects
Professor Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, emphasized the significance of the National Quantum Mission. He described it as an ambitious project with the potential to make substantial contributions to quantum technologies and science.
Professor Urbasi Sinha from the Quantum Information and Computing Lab at the Raman Research Institute highlighted India’s progress in secure quantum communications. On World Quantum Day, April 13, 2024, Professor Sinha noted the country’s achievements in both fiber and free-space quantum communication domains. Looking ahead, the NQM aims to develop a country-wide free-space QKD network using satellites and a fiber-based QKD network. Additionally, advances towards multi-node quantum repeater networks for entanglement distribution are planned, with the ultimate goal of contributing to the global quantum internet.
Conclusion
The National Quantum Mission represents a significant ₹427 crore budget investment in the future of quantum technology in India. With a substantial budget and clear goals, the mission aims to lead in quantum research. It will drive advancements in quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials. As the initiative unfolds, it will position India as a significant player in the global quantum technology field.
