In a biggest technological advancement move, centre has approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM), which will promote and scale up research and development in quantum technology.
The mission, with a cost of ₹ 6,003.65 crore from 2023-24 to 2030-31, aims to accelerate economic growth led by quantum technology and nurture the ecosystem in the country.
India will be the sixth country to have a dedicated quantum mission, after the US, Austria, Finland, France, and China. The mission aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits in eight years, along with various platforms such as superconducting and photonic technology.
The mission also targets satellite-based secure quantum communications between ground stations over a range of 2000 km within India, long-distance secure quantum communications with other countries, inter-city quantum key distribution over 2000 km, and multi-node quantum network with quantum memories.
The National Quantum Mission will also support the development of high-sensitivity magnetometers in atomic systems and atomic clocks for precision timing, communications, and navigation, and the design and synthesis of quantum materials such as superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and topological materials for fabrication of quantum devices.
The mission aims to establish four thematic hubs in top academic and national research and development institutes, focused on quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum materials and devices. The hubs will generate new knowledge through basic and applied research and promote R&D in areas that are mandated to them.
The National Quantum Mission will benefit various sectors, such as communication, health, finance, and energy, as well as drug design and space applications. It will provide a boost to national priorities, including Digital India, Make in India, Skill India, Stand-up India, Start-up India, Self-reliant India, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
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