India Announces $730 Million Plus National Quantum Mission

Insider Summary

• National Quantum Mission (NQM) with a total cost of Rs. 6003.65 crore — approx. $730,297 US — from 2023-24 to 2030-31.
• The mission aims to promote scientific and industrial research and development in Quantum Technology (QT) to accelerate economic growth, establish India as a global leader in Quantum Technology & Applications (QTA), and support national priorities.
• One of NQM’s ambitious goals is to develop a medium-scale quantum computer with 50-1000 physical qubits within 8 years.

The Union Cabinet approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) with a total cost of Rs. 6,003.65 crore — approximately $730,297,000 US — from 2023-24 to 2030-31, according to Indian PM and other press reports.

According to the site, the mission aims to promote scientific and industrial research and development in Quantum Technology (QT) to accelerate economic growth, make India a global leader in Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA), and support national priorities such as digital India, Make in India, Skill India, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

50-1000 Physical Qubits

NQM has set an ambitious target of developing a medium-scale quantum computer with 50-1000 physical qubits within 8 years using multiple platforms such as superconducting and photonic technologies. It also aims to establish satellite-based secure quantum communications between ground stations in India and with other countries within 2000 kilometers, as well as distribution of quantum keys between cities over 2000 kilometers and a multi-node Quantum network with quantum memory.

The program will also focus on the development of high sensitivity magnetometers in atomic systems and Atomic Clocks for timekeeping, communications and navigation. Additionally, it will support the design and synthesis of quantum materials such as superconductors, new semiconductor structures, and topological materials for the fabrication of quantum devices. Single photon sources/detectors and entangled photon sources will be developed for quantum communications, sensing and metrology applications.

Thematic Hubs

To promote research and development in QT, four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) will be established at leading academic and National R&D institutions, focusing on Quantum Computing, Quantum Communications, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices. This hub will generate new knowledge through basic and applied research and contribute to mission goals.

NQM is expected to have a significant impact on a wide range of sectors including communications, healthcare, finance, energy, drug design and aerospace applications. By developing a dynamic and innovative ecosystem in QT, India aims to become a global competitor in the development of quantum technology. The mission aligns with national priorities and initiatives such as Make in India, Skill India and Stand-up India, and will contribute to India’s vision of becoming self-reliant and achieving sustainable development goals.