Quantum Leap: How India Is Shaping the Future in the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology

India’s Role in the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology: A Quantum Leap for the Nation

2025 isn’t just another year on the calendar—it marks the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, a global celebration of one of the most exciting frontiers in science. And India? It’s not just participating. It’s leading.

While quantum science may still sound futuristic to many, India’s commitment to this field is grounded in serious research, bold policy decisions, and a growing community of scientists, innovators, and institutions ready to shape the next technological era.

What Is the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology?

Declared by the United Nations and supported by scientific organizations around the world, the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ 2025) aims to raise awareness of how quantum discoveries—from the tiniest particles to powerful computers—are transforming our world.

It’s a year of global events, collaborations, educational outreach, and breakthroughs in areas like:

• Quantum computing

• Quantum communication

• Quantum sensing and metrology

• Quantum cryptography

India’s role in this worldwide celebration is not symbolic—it’s foundational.

The National Quantum Mission: India’s Flagship Push

India launched the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in 2023 with a budget of ₹6,003 crore, laying the groundwork for its emergence as a quantum tech leader.

Here’s what the mission focuses on:

• Building quantum computers with 50–1000 qubits over the next 8 years.

• Developing secure quantum communication networks for strategic and civilian use.

• Setting up four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) across India for focused research in quantum sensing, computing, materials, and communications.

• Encouraging academic-industry partnerships to accelerate innovation and product development.

By 2031, India hopes to join the elite group of nations with practical quantum computing capabilities.

Global Collaborations: India Steps Onto the World Stage

As part of the International Year, Indian institutions are stepping up their collaborations with global leaders in quantum science. Some notable initiatives include:

• Joint research projects with the US, Germany, and Japan on quantum sensors and materials.

• India-EU Quantum Network launched to boost academic exchanges and joint innovation.

• ISRO and DRDO investing in quantum encryption and satellite-based quantum key distribution (QKD) for secure defense communication.

This global outreach not only accelerates research but places India firmly in the conversation around ethical and equitable development of quantum technologies.

Academic and Public Engagement: Science Meets Society

As part of the International Year celebrations, India is hosting a range of public engagement initiatives:

• Quantum Yatra: A travelling science expo reaching schools and colleges in rural and urban India.

• Hackathons and ideathons in premier institutes like IISc Bangalore, IIT Bombay, and IISER Pune.

• Launch of the Quantum India Portal, featuring free courses, interactive simulations, and multilingual explainers for students and the general public.

• Science city installations in Ahmedabad and Kolkata showcasing real-time quantum experiments and demos.

The goal? To demystify quantum science and inspire the next generation of physicists, engineers, and innovators.

Industry Involvement: Startups and Corporate India Join the Wave

India’s tech ecosystem isn’t sitting on the sidelines. Startups like QNu Labs, BosonQ Psi, and Tata Elxsi’s quantum research wing are:

• Building indigenous quantum-safe cybersecurity solutions.

• Developing simulation tools for quantum materials research.

• Creating software that can run on upcoming quantum hardware.

The government is also offering Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) for quantum hardware manufacturing and extending seed funding to deep-tech startups through BIRAC and DST programs.

Strategic Implications: Quantum for National Security and Governance

Quantum isn’t just about faster computers—it’s about future-proofing national security. India's efforts include:

• Integrating quantum key distribution into defense communication channels.

• Exploring quantum radar systems for more accurate surveillance and detection.

• Preparing quantum-resistant encryption standards for banking and governance platforms.

Given the sensitive nature of this technology, India is treading carefully, balancing open collaboration with strategic autonomy.

Final Thoughts: A Future Rewritten in Qubits

India’s role in the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology is a natural progression of its scientific ambitions. It reflects a growing confidence in homegrown innovation, a willingness to collaborate globally, and a strong political and institutional will to lead in the technologies that will define the next century.

As quantum science steps out of textbooks and into our daily lives, India’s bold investments and inclusive outreach could ensure that this revolution is not only witnessed but shaped by millions of Indians—from lab researchers to school students.

The world is watching, and India is ready.