Developing and Controlling Quantum Technology is A Necessity, Not A Choice, For India: Principal Scientific Advisor, GoI

Given the critical importance of quantum technology in sectors like defense, India has no choice but to develop and control this technology, said Dr Ajay Sood, the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India at the 3rd edition of the International Quantum Conclave in New Delhi.

“Quantum technologies have strong strategic significance, both in the civilian and defence sectors. Though I’ve said this repeatedly, it must be said again: we should not be asking whether we should do quantum technologies or when we should do them. The fact is, we have to do it now,” said Sood.

He highlighted the recent developments happening under NQM (National Quantum Mission).

“We have already launched it, and four techno hubs have already been declared. With each hub, we have technical groups. The unique thing is that there are 170 or a large number of scientists, who are participating in this quantum mission. It is spread across 17 states and two Union Territories. So it is a whole-of-India approach, looking at the four verticals of this mission,” he added.

He also highlighted the commendable work being done by startups with this new technology, all of which are funded and supported by various government institutions.

“Some startups have already been supported under this mission. Eight of them have already been funded, and now there will be a continuous process to evaluate applications from startups for funding from the mission,” said Sood.

He gave the example of QNu Labs, which announced a 25-qubit quantum computer on this recent World Quantum Day.

Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is another crucial field that develops new cryptographic algorithms that can resist attacks from quantum computers.

“PQC is a crucial focus. It doesn’t require a quantum setup; instead, it focuses on developing quantum-safe algorithms. A comprehensive effort is underway, with a high-powered committee having outlined the necessary steps. This plan will be rolled out to ensure that sectors such as fintech, energy, and other vulnerable industries quickly adopt PQC and quantum-safe methodologies,” he informed.

Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India also highlighted that quantum technology where you can check back in six months to ask what has happened rather than progress is happening on a weekly basis.

“Given India’s strengths, our demographic advantage, and government support, we aim to be a global player in the quantum technology supply chain,” he concluded.