Implementation strategy and timelines of National Quantum Mission (NQM)

Context

The 1^st meeting of Mission Governing Board (MGB) on the strategy and timelines for implementation of the mission held.

Implementation Strategy

The Mission Coordination Cell (MCC) will be set up as a coordinating agency for the Mission and will work in coordination with the Mission Secretariat, Dept. of S&T (DST).
The MCC will be set up in an institution identified by DST, based on merit and existing infrastructure and will function under the overall supervision and guidance of Mission Technology Research Council (MTRC).
Developing own system: focus should be on developing own system rather than importing systems not developed here. Industry has to play a key role in technology sharing as well as in fund sharing.

Quantum Technologies

Quantum Technology is based on the principles of Quantum mechanics developed in the early 20th century to describe nature at the scale of atoms and elementary particles.
Quantum technology uses the building blocks of nature (subatomic particles)
Using quantum superposition, a set of unbreakable codes or super-speedy information processing, quantum computers are able to mimic several classical computers working in parallel.
Quantum technology is manifested through applications in secure communication, disaster management through better prediction, computing, simulation, chemistry, healthcare, cryptography, imaging among others.

National Quantum Mission (NQM)

National Quantum Mission (NQM) was launched in the year 2023 and it is being implemented by DST with a total outlay of Rs.6003.65 Crore for a period of eight years.
The Mission aims to seed, nurture and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT).
This will accelerate QT led economic growth, nurture the ecosystem in the country and make India one of the leading nations in the development of Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA).
The Mission aims to advance technology in magnetometers and atomic clocks for precise applications in timing, communications, and navigation. Additionally, it supports the development of quantum materials like superconductors and unique semiconductor structures, crucial for creating quantum devices.
While holding considerable civilian applications, particularly in governance and industry, the mission recognizes the strategic importance of quantum technology in military communications, potentially altering the dynamics of conflicts.
This initiative is integral to India's aspirations to compete with China in the quantum communication domain, an area where China has made significant strides.
Quantum communication is emphasized for its potential to revolutionize military communication, enabling a nation with such capabilities to potentially disrupt an adversary's data and communication networks.
Furthermore, having quantum communication can bolster the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure, including electricity, aviation, defence, and energy, protecting them from potential attacks by hostile nations.