The Union Cabinet approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) on 19 April 2023 at a cost of Rs. 6003.65 crore from 2023-24 to 2030-31.
The NQM aims to seed, nurture, and scale up scientific and industrial R&D in Quantum Technology (QT) to create a vibrant and innovative ecosystem in India.
The mission targets developing intermediate scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years in various platforms like superconducting and photonic technology.
The mission will also develop satellite-based secure quantum communications, long-distance secure quantum communications with other countries, inter-city quantum key distribution, and multi-node Quantum network with quantum memories.
The NQM will help develop magnetometers with high sensitivity in atomic systems, atomic clocks for precision timing, communications, and navigation, and support design and synthesis of quantum materials such as superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and topological materials for fabrication of quantum devices.
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 mission will benefit communication, health, financial and energy sectors, as well as drug design and space applications.
The NQM will boost National priorities like digital India, Make in India, Skill India and Stand-up India, Start-up India, Self-reliant India and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
Q.: What is the total cost of the National Quantum Mission (NQM) approved by the Union Cabinet?
a. Rs. 400.35 crore
b. Rs. 6003.65 crore
c. Rs. 7035.00 crore
d. Rs. 205.35 crore
Answer: b. Rs. 6003.65 crore
