India Launches Groundbreaking Quantum Technology Strategy
The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India has unveiled the inaugural edition of the International Technology Engagement Strategy for Quantum (ITES-Q). This strategic document aims to enhance India’s position in Quantum Science, Technology, and Innovation (QSTI) as the nation gears up for the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology in 2025. The report was presented by PSA Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood during a podcast commemorating World Quantum Day, emphasizing the importance of quantum technology for India’s strategic autonomy.
Significance of the ITES-Q Report
The ITES-Q report serves as a foundational analysis for stakeholders in government, academia, and industry, providing insights that align with India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM). It aims to facilitate the formulation of action points tailored to specific engagement goals. Prof. Sood underscored the urgency of advancing quantum technology, stating that no nation can afford to lag in this critical area. He emphasized that achieving strategic autonomy is impossible without being “quantum safe.” The report outlines the need for India to invest in quantum hardware, reduce import dependencies, and foster a robust startup ecosystem to drive innovation.
Prof. Sood also highlighted the necessity of creating markets for quantum products, which requires collaboration among government, private sectors, academia, and startups. He stressed that India must take an active role in defining global standards for quantum technology, a gap that needs urgent attention. Establishing these standards will not only enhance India’s market position but also contribute to global efforts in quantum technology standardization.
National Quantum Mission: A Comprehensive Approach
During the podcast, Prof. Sood elaborated on the National Quantum Mission (NQM), which is being effectively implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The mission encompasses the entire lifecycle of quantum technology, from research and development to market scalability. He explained the hub-and-spoke model being utilized by NQM, which involves collaboration among 152 researchers from 43 institutions across 17 states and 2 Union Territories.
This model aims to streamline the transition from research to practical applications, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of quantum technology advancements. The NQM’s comprehensive approach is designed to address the challenges of translating research into market-ready products, thereby fostering a vibrant quantum ecosystem in the country.
Global and National Quantum Ecosystems
The ITES-Q report provides an extensive overview of both global and national quantum ecosystems, analyzing various aspects such as investments, talent development, institutional strengths, research output, intellectual property, and industrial activities. This comprehensive analysis is intended to foster impactful partnerships and enhance India’s diplomatic efforts in the realm of technology.
Furthermore, the ITES-Q aims to support Indian missions abroad by strengthening bilateral and multilateral engagements in QSTI. The initiative reflects the Office of the PSA’s commitment to elevating India’s technology diplomacy across critical and emerging domains. The full report is accessible on the Office of PSA’s website, providing stakeholders with valuable insights to navigate the evolving landscape of quantum technology.
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