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India’s Quantum Path: Collaborative Strategies for Technological Leadership

India’s Quantum Path: Collaborative Strategies for Technological Leadership
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India has made significant progress in the field of quantum technology in recent years, positioning itself as a key player on the global stage. This success has been achieved through collaborative efforts between the government, academia, and the private sector, reflecting the country's commitment to advancing quantum technology development. 

The Indian government has been leading the way with initiatives such as the National Mission for Quantum Technologies and Applications (NM-QTA). This mission aims to advance quantum technology research with an investment of 80 billion INR (approximately 960 million USD) over five years. Among its goals are the development of a 50-qubit quantum processor and the establishment of quantum communication networks. Additional funds have been allocated to quantum research and development in various institutions, focusing on computing, metrology, materials, and communication.

India has also forged strategic collaborations with global industry leaders, leveraging its research prowess and innovation capabilities. Major corporations such as Coforge, HCL Technologies, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Tech Mahindra are actively involved in quantum research, forming partnerships and investing in quantum labs. Partnerships like the one between IBM and the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-Madras), have been instrumental in advancing research and providing access to cutting-edge resources. 

Academic institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru, Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), and Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have also made significant contributions to quantum research, reflecting India's commitment to building a strong academic foundation in the field. Initiatives like the I-HUB Quantum Technology Foundation (I-HUB QTF) by the Department of Science and Technology and research collaborations between institutions such as IISER Pune and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) have further bolstered quantum research efforts. 

India's defence organisations, such as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army, have also played a significant role in quantum technology research. In December 2021, the Indian Army set up a laboratory for quantum computing and a centre for artificial intelligence at the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. These initiatives aim to enhance communication systems, cryptography, and Post Quantum Cryptography. Focus areas include quantum key distribution, quantum communication, quantum computing, and post-quantum cryptography. 

India aims to become a talent hub for quantum technology, with plans to develop a 50-qubit quantum computer by 2026. Over the next five years, the country will invest one billion dollars in various programs to advance its capabilities in quantum information and metrology, quantum applications and materials, and quantum communications. The percentage of businesses using quantum technology is expected to increase from less than 1% in 2022 to between 35 and 45% by 2030. Currently, there are between 14 and 15 startups in India working on commercial uses of quantum technology, with expectations of this number increasing to between 400 and 500 over the next decade. 

The Association of American Universities (AAU) has formed a task force to enhance research ties with India and promote international partnerships. This initiative recognises the significance of collaborations in addressing global challenges and aims to identify key focus areas for bilateral research and education cooperation. The task force emphasises the importance of true collaborations, where faculty engage in joint research projects and have access to research facilities and infrastructure in both countries.

India is witnessing a surge in the development of quantum technology, which has the potential to revolutionise many industries. The country is actively participating in this global trend through collaborations with global leaders like IBM and the establishment of the National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications. However, there are still gaps in the current science and technology ecosystem, such as limited sharing of expertise and resources between industry and academia, and challenges faced by start-ups and MSMEs in accessing opportunities. 

To address these gaps and promote collaboration among government, academia, the private sector, and defence organisations, concerted efforts are needed. Essential steps towards this include streamlining funding mechanisms, fostering greater industry-academia partnerships, and promoting knowledge sharing and technology transfer. Science & Technology (S&T) Clusters can facilitate collaborative innovation by creating stronger linkages between academic institutions, research laboratories, industry partners, and other stakeholders. 

Targeted support for start-ups and MSMEs, along with initiatives to promote interdisciplinary research and talent development, are also necessary to drive India's quantum technology ecosystem forward. Despite commendable efforts, there are still notable gaps and challenges. Fragmentation and siloed approaches in industry-academia collaboration remain persistent hurdles, and the lack of streamlined mechanisms for technology transfer and commercialisation hinders the translation of research outcomes into tangible products and solutions. 

A diversified portfolio in quantum research and development is also essential to capitalise on the full spectrum of opportunities offered by this disruptive technology. Moreover, the quantum startup ecosystem requires targeted support and nurturing to thrive. While the government's support has led to the emergence of several startups in the quantum space, sustained efforts are needed to provide the necessary infrastructure, funding, and regulatory frameworks conducive to their growth and success. 

To solidify India's position as a global leader in the quantum revolution, collaboration between government, academia, the private sector, and defence organisations is paramount. Strengthening industry-academia partnerships, fostering technology transfer, and nurturing the quantum startup ecosystem are imperative steps to address existing challenges and capitalise on the immense potential offered by quantum technology. India can realise its vision of becoming a quantum powerhouse and drive innovation-led growth in the 21st century only through concerted efforts and strategic foresight.

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Written by Shivani

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