Why in the News?

The Government of India has launched four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) for quantum computing research, with Uttar Pradesh receiving the highest allocation of ₹28.7 crore for quantum technology development in FY 2024-25, followed by Karnataka, Maharashtra, Delhi, and Tamil Nadu.

About the Quantum Hubs

• Quantum Hubs, also known as Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs), are specialized research centres established under India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM).
• They are designed to drive innovation, research, and development in different aspects of quantum technology.
• Four T-Hubs have been established in leading academic institutions.
• Each hub focuses on a specific domain of quantum research:
  1. Quantum Computing (IISc Bengaluru).
  2. Quantum Communication (IIT Bombay).
  3. Quantum Sensing & Metrology (IIT Delhi).
  4. Quantum Materials & Devices (IIT Madras).
• IIT Kanpur serves as the management coordinating center, overseeing administration and funding allocation.
• The hubs operate across 17 States and 2 Union Territories, with 14 technical research groups collaborating on different projects.

About National Quantum Mission (NQM)

• The NQM was launched by the Union Cabinet on April 19, 2023, with a total budget of ₹6,003.65 crore for a period of eight years (2023-2031).
• It is implemented by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Ministry of Science & Technology.
• The mission aims to build intermediate-scale quantum computers, starting with:
  1. 20-50 qubits in 3 years,
  2. 50-100 qubits in 5 years, and
  3. 50-1,000 qubits in 8 years.
• Additionally, it seeks to establish satellite-based quantum communication over 2,000 km within India, inter-city quantum key distribution (QKD), and multi-node quantum networks.

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