Quantum Tech and India: Need for Global Partnerships

GS3 – Science & Technology

Context:

With the intensifying global tech race, quantum technology is becoming central to digital, economic, and national security. India must go beyond investments to build strategic global partnerships and remain competitive.

Importance of Quantum Technology

• Massive Market Potential:
  The global quantum tech market is expected to reach $100 billion by 2040, with quantum communication alone projected to exceed $13 billion by 2034.
• Influence over Global Norms:
  Countries leading in quantum computing, encryption, and sensing will shape international digital governance and technical standards.
• Current Leaders:
  • US and China dominate due to expertise in chip fabrication, cryogenics, and laser systems.
  • China has built a 1,000-km quantum-encrypted communication network.
  • Western companies like Volkswagen are applying quantum computing to real-world challenges.

India’s Quantum Progress

• Ajeya Processor:
  India’s first 6-qubit superconducting processor, developed by DRDO and TCS, designed at TIFR.
• Full-Stack Quantum Control System:
  Developed jointly by DRDO and TCS.
• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Trials:
  DRDO–IIT Delhi and ISRO–RRI successfully demonstrated 100 km fibre and free-space QKD links.
• Quantum Metrology:
  DRDO is advancing quantum-based navigation and sensing systems.
• Free-Space Optical Communication:
  Nav Wireless is building secure quantum communication infrastructure using this technology.

India’s Competitive Advantage

• Talent Pool:
  India ranks 2nd globally with about 91,000 quantum-trained graduates.
• Mathematical Edge:
  Proficiencies in tensor algebra, Monte Carlo simulations, and Quantum Fourier Transforms (QFT).
• Low-Cost Execution:
  Mission-mode projects enable cost-effective infrastructure development.
• Focus on Indigenous Development:
  The National Quantum Mission (NQM) promotes local fabrication, photonics, and cryogenic systems.

Challenges for India

• Scaling Restrictions:
  • Export control regimes limit access to essential equipment.
  • Shortage of quantum-skilled engineers impedes scalability (NITI Aayog).
• Funding Gaps:
  • Only 2.63% of research receives industry funding.
  • 17% of projects remain unfunded.
• Brain Drain:
  Young researchers often move abroad due to better funding and laboratory access.
• Supply Chain Dependency:
  No domestic chip fabrication for quantum. India relies on imports for cryogenics, lasers, and rare elements like indium.
• Limited International Collaboration:
  • Few partnerships, such as Infosys–Quintessence Labs, focusing on quantum cybersecurity.
  • Broader integration with global research is lacking.
• Low Private Sector Investment:
  India’s quantum investment is only $30 million, compared to USA ($6.94 billion) and Australia ($661 million).

Government Initiatives

• Budgetary Support:
  The National Quantum Mission (NQM) has allocated ₹6,000 crore to drive research in quantum computing, communication, and sensing.
• T-Hubs (Thematic Hubs):
  Located at IISc, IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, and IIT Delhi to boost domain-specific R&D.
• QCAL Lab (MeitY):
  Supports public-sector applications of quantum technologies.
• Startup Funding:
  A $1.2 billion RDI scheme fund supports deep-tech and quantum startups.
• Talent Development:
  Initiatives like QIndia and DST programs promote quantum education from school to college levels.

Strategic Recommendations

1. Enhance Global Collaboration:
   Partner with US, EU, South Korea, and Australia via initiatives like India–US TRUST and the Quantum Entanglement Exchange for tech access.
2. Leverage NQM:
   Use NQM to build domestic capacity in quantum hardware, materials, communication, and sensing.
3. Influence Global Standards:
   • Actively join global standard-setting forums to ensure interoperability.
   • Establish a Quantum Standards Authority to certify domestic quantum systems.
4. Promote Startup Partnerships:
   Facilitate cross-border innovation via platforms like T-Hub, INDUS-X, and Seoul Startup Hub.
5. Identify and Address Gaps:
   • Conduct national R&D gap mapping.
   • Introduce lab autonomy and talent visa schemes to bring back Indian-origin scientists.