India Launches $735M National Quantum Mission

The mission’s primary objective is to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50 to 1,000 physical qubits within eight years, using various platforms such as superconducting and photonic technology. It plans to reach the milestone of 20 to 50 qubit quantum computers in the next three years.

“Four Thematic Hubs would be set up in top academic and national R&D institutes on the domains of quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum materials and devices,” said science minister Jitendra Singh.

“The hubs will focus on the generation of new knowledge through basic and applied research as well as promote R&D in areas that are mandated to them.”

The National Quantum Mission

The mission will also develop single photon sources and detectors, and entangled photon sources for quantum communication, sensing and metrological purposes.

“Normally, India has joined the elite clubs in different sectors after other countries had already excelled in those fields. But for the first time, we are entering this field when the first six countries – U.S., China, France, Austria and Finland – are also at the R&D stage,” Singh said.