National Quantum Mission (NQM) Approved by Union Cabinet

National Quantum Mission (NQM): The National Quantum Mission (NQM) refers to a strategic initiative undertaken by a country to advance research, development, and applications in the field of quantum science and technology. The specific goals and objectives of the NQM can vary depending on the country’s priorities and focus areas. Typically, the mission aims to foster advancements in quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum metrology, quantum materials, and related fields. National Quantum Mission (NQM) is also UPSC Prelims Exam and UPSC Mains Exam (GS Paper 3- Science and Technology).

National Quantum Mission (NQM) in News

Recently, the Union Cabinet, chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM).

National Quantum Mission (NQM)

National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to seed, nurture and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT).

• Funding: National Quantum Mission (NQM) has been approved at a total cost of Rs.6003.65 crore from 2023-24 to 2030-31.
• Mandate: National Quantum Mission (NQM) will accelerate QT led economic growth, nurture the ecosystem in the country and make India one of the leading nations in the development of Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA).
• Thematic Hubs: Four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) will be set up in top academic and National R&D institutes on the domains – Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology and Quantum Materials & Devices.
  • The hubs which will focus on generation of new knowledge through basic and applied research as well as promote R&D in areas that are mandated to them.

National Quantum Mission (NQM) Targets

The National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to achieve the development of intermediate-scale quantum computers, ranging from 50 to 1000 physical qubits, within a timeframe of 8 years.

• These quantum computers will be built using different platforms such as superconducting and photonic technology.
• Additionally, the mission includes the establishment of satellite-based secure quantum communications, enabling communication between ground stations across a distance of 2000 kilometers within India.
• Furthermore, the mission aims to achieve long-distance secure quantum communications with other countries, implement inter-city quantum key distribution spanning over 2000 kilometers, and create a multi-node Quantum network incorporating quantum memories.

National Quantum Mission (NQM) Significance

The mission’s objectives extend to the development of highly sensitive magnetometers based on atomic systems, as well as Atomic Clocks for precise timing, communication, and navigation purposes.

• It will also provide support for the design and synthesis of quantum materials, including superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and topological materials, which will be utilized in the fabrication of quantum devices.
• Additionally, the mission aims to develop single photon sources and detectors, as well as entangled photon sources, for applications in quantum communications, sensing, and metrology.

Conclusion

The National Quantum Mission (NQM) has the potential to elevate the technology development ecosystem in the country to a globally competitive level. The mission is expected to have significant positive impacts on various sectors including communication, healthcare, finance, energy, drug design, and space applications. Additionally, it will greatly contribute to fulfilling national priorities such as Digital India, Make in India, Skill India, Stand-up India, Start-up India, Self-reliant India, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The mission’s implementation is anticipated to provide a substantial impetus to these initiatives and goals, fostering innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development.

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