The Government of India has approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM), which aims to propel quantum technologies and help India become a leader in this vast and emerging field. This came at a cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently and further underscored the government's resolve for scientific excellence and strategic innovation.

The mission will be launched over the next five years and will concentrate on research, development and deployment of new quantum computing, communication, sensing, and encryption systems. NQM is designed to invest ₹6,003 crore to boost India's tech ecosystem, encourage academia-industry cooperation, and create a pool of quantum-trained professionals.

Quantum technologies are expected to significantly extend beyond classical computation technologies and change the fields of data security and metrology. The mission will enable the development of solutions for general problems in various areas, like national defence, drug development, climate modeling and health care, among others, and also play a role in economic development, officials said.

Multidisciplinary research centres will be set up to promote innovation and experimentation under the National Quantum Mission. The programme will also help contribute to startups, incubators and industry partners developing quantum prototypes and applications. One prime thrust is to build indigenous capacity to be less reliant on foreign technology and more independent, in critical areas of technology, for strategic autonomy.

The world-class mission will also foster international collaboration and will bring international scientists to India for interaction with researchers here and for the implementation of frontier science programmes. Expected: technology transfer and technology transfer in collaboration with world-class institutions enable the process to be sped up.

Capacity building is at the heart of the programme, with plans to develop specialised academic programmes, scholarships and faculty exchange programmes to build a quality quantum workforce. The mission will also host national and international conferences and workshops for the creation of a healthy research community.

The government said the National Quantum Mission exemplifies India's proactiveness in leveraging the new technologies for the people. Quantum innovation has the potential to revolutionise industries and enhance the quality of life, and by investing in quantum technologies today, India is positioning itself to reap the benefits of these revolutionary applications.