India’s New Quantum Ambition
Quantum Rise for India by 2047: India’s quantum vision has accelerated with the launch of a national roadmap by NITI Aayog in collaboration with IBM. The plan sets a long-term goal to place India among the top-3 global quantum economies by 2047. It aligns with national technological aspirations and strengthens India’s position in emerging frontier technologies.
Static GK fact: NITI Aayog was established in 2015 as the successor to the Planning Commission.
Foundation Built on National Quantum Mission
The roadmap builds upon the National Quantum Mission (NQM) approved in April 2023, with a sanctioned budget of ₹6,003.65 crore. NQM aims to advance quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing and quantum devices through research hubs and academic-industry partnerships.
Static GK Tip: The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is the nodal body for major scientific missions in India.
Strengthening R&D and Infrastructure
A major focus lies on expanding India’s capabilities in quantum hardware such as qubit processors, quantum materials and advanced sensing systems. Strengthening secure quantum communication and metrology infrastructure also forms part of the plan. These investments aim to reduce import dependence and encourage domestic innovation.
Talent Development and Start-up Growth
The roadmap highlights the need for a strong talent pool to support quantum research and industry. Universities and research institutions are expected to introduce specialized programmes to develop researchers, engineers and tech professionals. A vibrant start-up ecosystem is also crucial, with expectations of at least ten globally competitive quantum-tech firms emerging from India.
Sector-Wide Quantum Applications
Quantum deployments across defence, cybersecurity, energy, logistics, healthcare and finance form a core vision of the roadmap. These applications could enable breakthroughs in drug discovery, supply-chain optimisation, critical infrastructure management and secure communications.
Static GK fact: India’s defence R&D is led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which has been exploring quantum-safe communication systems.
Public–Private and Academic Collaboration
The roadmap promotes a collaborative model involving policymakers, scientific institutions, industry innovators and state governments. Such partnerships aim to accelerate quantum adoption, ensure resource optimisation and foster shared responsibility in building a national quantum ecosystem.
Regulatory Framework and Ecosystem Support
Developing standards and regulatory mechanisms for quantum technologies is essential for safe deployment. Ensuring quantum-safe cryptography, enabling incentives for industry investment and creating pathways for commercialisation are key enablers for India’s long-term quantum leadership.
Strategic and Economic Impact
The roadmap could transform India’s global technology standing by expanding high-value industries, enhancing defence readiness and creating new innovation clusters. Entering global quantum markets early could accelerate economic growth and position India as a significant exporter of quantum technologies and services.
Static GK Tip: India celebrates National Technology Day on 11 May, marking the country’s technological achievements.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Quantum Rise for India by 2047:
| Topic | Detail |
| National Quantum Mission budget | ₹6,003.65 crore (2023–24 to 2030–31) |
| Implementing bodies | NITI Aayog, IBM, DST, academic institutions |
| Main vision year | 2047 |
| Core focus areas | Quantum hardware, software, sensing, communication |
| Sectoral beneficiaries | Defence, healthcare, logistics, energy, finance |
| Start-up goal | At least ten globally competitive quantum firms |
| Key enabling factors | Public–private collaboration, regulation, skills |
| Strategic outcome | India aims to become a top-3 global quantum economy |
| Technology domains | Quantum computing, communication, sensing |
| Long-term national benefit | Innovation growth and reduced foreign dependence |
