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In a significant advancement for India’s quantum technology landscape, the DRDO Young Scientists Laboratory for Quantum Technologies (DYSL-QT) in Pune, in collaboration with the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in Mumbai and their consultancy services, has achieved a major milestone by successfully completing the end-to-end testing of a 6-qubit quantum processor based on superconducting circuit technology.
This breakthrough was presented before the apex committee overseeing the DYSL-QT project, marking a critical step toward advancing operational quantum computing capabilities in India.
The testing process involved a comprehensive demonstration that included submitting a quantum circuit via a cloud-based interface, executing the programme on the quantum hardware, and updating the cloud interface with the computed results.
This approach demonstrated the quantum processor’s functionality and highlighted the integration of advanced technology with practical quantum computing applications, marking significant progress in the field.
Located at TIFR’s Colaba campus, the quantum processor features an innovative ring-resonator architecture, a unique design developed by TIFR. The project reflects a strong collaboration between DYSL-QT and the others, with each partner contributing critical expertise and technology.
DYSL-QT scientists played a key role in assembling the control and measurement apparatus, using a combination of commercial off-the-shelf electronics and custom-programmed development boards. This setup facilitated the precise control and measurement necessary for quantum computing experiments.
The consultancy services organisation’s contribution was pivotal in developing the cloud-based interface that connects seamlessly with the quantum hardware. This interface allows users to interact with the quantum processor remotely, submit quantum circuits, and retrieve results in real-time.
The integration of this cloud-based system is a testament to the collaborative effort to make quantum computing more accessible and practical for a range of applications, from academic research to industrial use.
Following this successful demonstration, the focus now shifts to optimising various aspects of system performance. The team is working to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the quantum processor, ensuring that it can handle more complex computations and support a broader range of experiments.
Plans are underway to make the quantum processor available for educational purposes, research, and as a testbed for analysing superconducting quantum devices. This expanded access aims to foster innovation and provide valuable insights into the development of future quantum technologies.
The next phase of development will involve scaling up the number of qubits and evaluating the associated technological, developmental, and financial challenges. This comprehensive approach will assess scaling trends and determine the resources needed for the development, operation, and commercialisation of quantum computers of various sizes. By addressing these challenges, the initiative aims to pave the way for more advanced quantum computing systems and solidify India’s position in the global quantum technology arena.
This ambitious project represents a significant leap forward in the field of quantum computing. The successful end-to-end testing of the 6-qubit quantum processor demonstrates the potential of superconducting circuit technology and highlights the effectiveness of international collaboration in advancing scientific research.
Indian scientists have reached a major quantum tech milestone with a new method for generating truly unpredictable random numbers, crucial for secure quantum communications.
Researchers from the Raman Research Institute, IISc, and IISER-Thiruvananthapuram demonstrated loophole-free randomness by violating Leggett-Garg Inequalities, enhancing encryption security and enabling the rapid generation of over 900,000 random bits.
Additionally, India’s Department of Telecommunications is advancing quantum technology through initiatives like the ‘5G Intelligent Village’ and ‘Quantum Encryption Algorithm,’ reinforcing its commitment to digital security and global leadership in quantum innovations.
As India continues to invest in quantum technology, this achievement sets the stage for future innovations and underscores the country’s growing influence in the global quantum computing landscape.