Quantum Frontier Mission: Pioneering Quantum Research in India 🔬

The Quantum Frontier mission of the PM-STIAC aims to initiate work in the understanding and control of quantum mechanical systems with a large number of degrees of freedom as one of the great contemporary challenges in fundamental science and technology. Building excellence in the quantum frontier through this mission is essential for national security and the development of quantum computers, quantum chemistry, quantum communication, new materials, quantum sensors, and quantum cryptography.

Joining the race with other technologically advanced nations, the Indian government has given primacy to building quantum capabilities in the Budget 2020-21. The Union budget for 2020-21 allocated $1.12 bn (Rs. 8000 crores). Moreover, the Department of Science & Technology has set up Quantum-Enabled Science & Technology (QuEST) – a research programme to build quantum capabilities. As a part of the programme, DST will invest a sum of $11.2 mn (Rs 80 crore) over three years to facilitate research in this field.

"Quantum technology is opening up new frontiers in computing, communications, cybersecurity with widespread applications. It is expected that lots of commercial applications would emerge from theoretical constructs which are developing in this area".........Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman