Welcome to the Quantum Computing Revolution in India
Insider Brief
Exciting news has emerged from India as the country is on the brink of unveiling its first small-scale quantum computer at the prestigious Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in Mumbai. This groundbreaking project is part of India’s National Quantum Mission, aiming to shape the future of quantum technology in the country.
- India’s National Quantum Mission is set to develop a 24-qubit computer in three years and a 100-qubit system in five years.
- Bengaluru-based startup QpiAI is also in the quantum computing race with plans to launch a 25-qubit computer by the end of the year.
The initiative led by the Quantum Measurement and Control (QuMaC) lab at TIFR signifies a critical step towards India’s quantum technology prowess. Dr. R. Vijayaraghavan, head of QuMaC, expressed the significance of this project in establishing India’s presence in the quantum computing arena.
Collaborating with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), the project addresses the complexities of quantum processing, electronics, and software design. While the initial focus is on a superconducting quantum computer model, the long-term goal is to pave the way for advanced quantum systems.
Under the National Quantum Mission, Dr. Vijayaraghavan aims to achieve a 24-qubit computer in three years and a 100-qubit system in five years. Specialists are exploring various quantum technologies using qubits based on photons, neutral atoms, or trapped ions.
Despite challenges like qubit instability, researchers worldwide are striving to achieve error-corrected qubits to enhance the performance of quantum computers in solving real-world problems effectively and efficiently.
Meanwhile, in Bengaluru, QpiAI is at the forefront of quantum computing innovation, with plans to launch a 25-qubit quantum computer by the end of the year. CEO Dr. Nagendra Nagaraja envisions integrating AI and quantum computing in enterprises, aiming to catalyze India’s technological competitiveness globally.
The significant investment of Rs 6,000 crore in the National Quantum Mission emphasizes the government’s commitment to quantum technology, with anticipated economic impacts across industries such as chemicals, life sciences, finance, and mobility.
Quantum computers hold immense potential for revolutionizing sectors like sustainable energy and manufacturing, as emphasized by Dr. Nagaraja. The synergy of quantum computing and AI is poised to drive unprecedented levels of innovation and disruption in various fields.
With the quantum computing landscape evolving rapidly, India is poised to make significant strides in this transformative technology, establishing its position as a key player in the global quantum computing ecosystem.