Amaravati is being developed as a major hub for quantum research and innovation, under National Quantum Mission.
About National Quantum Mission (NQM)
- Aim: To seed, nurture and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT).
- Quantum Technology uses qubits as the basic unit of information instead of binary bits (0 and 1).
- Budget Allocation: ~₹6,000 crore (2023–24 to 2030–31)
- Objectives
- Developing intermediate-scale quantum computers: With 20-50 physical qubits within 3 years, scaling up to 1,000 qubits within 8 years.
- Quantum Communications: Satellite-based secure communications over 2,000 km and inter-city Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) networks.
- Advanced Sensing & Metrology: Creating high-sensitivity magnetometers and atomic clocks for precision navigation.
- Synthesizing next-gen materials: Like superconductors and topological materials for fabricating qubits.
Significance of NQM
- Strategic and security Necessity: Facilitate unhackable quantum encryption and QKD to protect defense, banking, and digital infrastructure.
- Global Standing: Positions India among a select group of elite nations with dedicated quantum missions.
- Sectoral Transformation:
- Healthcare: Enable precision radiation therapies, faster drug discovery, and personalized medicine.
- Economy: Expected to drive job creation, support startups, and boost India's space economy.
