About the National Quantum Mission
Approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2023 with an outlay of ₹6,003.65 Crore, the National Quantum Mission is India's flagship initiative to seed and scale quantum research, development, and translation.
Mission Mandate & Timeline
The National Quantum Mission (NQM) spans an eight-year period from 2023-24 to 2030-31. Managed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the mission is designed to bridge basic science and industrial applications.
The rapid development of quantum computers, secure communication systems, and high-precision sensors represents a critical national capability. Through NQM, the Government of India aims to secure technological independence (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and establish a global competitive advantage in quantum computing hardware fabrication, cryptography protocols, and materials science.
A core component of the mission is the establishment of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in leading national institutions. These hubs operate as centers of excellence, bringing together universities, industry, and start-ups to build hardware, code open-source software, and establish standard testbeds.
Core Focus Objectives
Scientific Excellence
Support high-fidelity research papers, file patents, and build indigenous prototypes for superconducting qubits, photonics, and clocks.
National Sovereignty
Ensure secure telecommunication channels utilizing quantum key distribution (QKD) over satellite and fiber to protect critical infrastructure.
Mission Metrics
- Implementing AgencyDST, India
- Cabinet ApprovalApril 19, 2023
- Total Budget₹6,003.65 Crore
- Active Outlay2023-24 to 2030-31
- Thematic Hubs4 Centers
Governance & Advisory Board
The mission operates under a structured governance model, bringing together eminent academicians, industry executives, and government secretaries.
Governing Body (GB)
The Governing Body oversees the mission direction, financial allocations, and technology targets, ensuring optimal utilization of the cabinet outlay.
Recent MGB Assembly: Prof A K Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to Government of India, Dr V K Saraswat, Member NITI Aayog, Dr Samir K Kamat, Secretary DD R&D & Chairman DRDO, Dr Rajat Moona, Director representatives from Department of Space, DOS, DRDo, DAE, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, DOT, Dept of Expenditure along with several DST officials attended the meeting.
Dr. Ajai Chowdhury
Chairman, Governing BodyFounder, HCL EnterpriseProf. Abhay Karandikar
Ex-Officio MemberSecretary, Department of Science & TechnologyDr. J B V Reddy
Mission DirectorNational Quantum MissionMission Technology Research Advisory Council (MTRAC)
MTRAC acts as the primary scientific advisory panel, reviewing technical roadmaps, overseeing academic project proposals, and monitoring research outputs of the four T-Hubs.