Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
In a significant leap towards advancing quantum technology in India, the first meeting of the Mission Governing Board (MGB) of the National Quantum Mission (NQM) recently convened under the leadership of Dr Ajai Chowdhry. The board extensively discussed the strategy for implementing NQM, including crucial timelines and the establishment of a pivotal Mission Coordination Cell (MCC).
The MCC is slated to function as the coordinating agency for NQM and will closely collaborate with the Mission Secretariat, under the auspices of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The selection of the MCC’s institutional base will be determined by merit and existing infrastructure, operating with supervision from the Mission Technology Research Council (MTRC).
Dr Ajai Chowdhry, Chairman of MGB and Founder of HCL Technologies, underscored the foundational aspects of quantum technology in India. He emphasised NQM’s role in propelling advancements in this domain, particularly highlighting the critical focus on manpower and startups.
Professor A K Sood, the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, stressed the importance of developing human resources and recommended empowering hubs to enhance human capacity. Dr V K Saraswat, a Member of Niti Aayog, highlighted the significance of industry participation in technology and fund sharing, advocating for the development of indigenous systems.
Providing insights into NQM’s scope, Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary DST, revealed plans to establish four mission hubs dedicated to Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices. These hubs will operate as consortia involving academia, research and development labs, and industry collaborations.
A comprehensive implementation plan was presented by Dr Akhilesh Gupta, Senior Advisor DST, and Secretary SERB, along with Dr Ekta Kapoor, Head FFT Division. The MGB thoroughly deliberated on the implementation strategy and timelines, endorsing a “Call for Pre-proposals” to invite proposals for establishing the four technology hubs under NQM.
The meeting saw the participation of key figures, including Dr Samir K Kamat (Secretary DD R&D and Chairman DRDO), Dr Rajat Moona (Director IIT Gandhinagar), Shri Vishvajit Sahay (AS&FA), representatives from DOS, DRDO, DAE, Meity, DOT, Dept of Expenditure, and various DST officials.
The Union Cabinet’s approval of the National Quantum Mission on April 19, 2023, marked a significant milestone. With an allocated budget of Rs. 6003.65 Crore (US$ 722 million) over eight years, NQM aims to foster scientific and industrial R&D, creating a dynamic ecosystem for Quantum Technology (QT). The mission aspires to propel economic growth through QT, positioning India as a frontrunner in Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA) on the global stage by fostering a dynamic ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT).
Over eight years, NQM has targeted developing intermediate-scale quantum computers, secure quantum communications via satellites, quantum key distribution, and multi-node quantum networks. Additionally, the mission focuses on creating high-sensitivity magnetometers, atomic clocks, and quantum materials for various applications, setting up four Thematic Hubs to promote research and development in specific domains.
The NQM has the potential to enhance India’s global competitiveness and benefit sectors like communication, health, finance and energy, and aligns with national priorities and sustainable development goals.