The government is preparing to fund quantum teaching laboratories in 100 engineering institutions across the country as part of its effort to strengthen India’s capabilities in advanced computing and emerging technologies. Each selected college will receive financial support of up to Rs 1 crore to establish dedicated undergraduate-level quantum research and education labs.
The plan was outlined by Department of Science and Technology (DST) Secretary Abhay Karandikar during an event at IIT Bombay. He noted that the initiative had drawn strong interest from institutions nationwide, with over 500 proposals already submitted. Around 100 colleges will be chosen for the first phase.
Alongside this, DST is also working on the creation of a specialised quantum algorithms technical group. The objective is to support start-ups, encourage innovation, and expand research in quantum technologies, ranging from software development to advanced hardware systems.
The announcement comes soon after Union Minister for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh confirmed the establishment of two large-scale quantum fabrication facilities under the National Quantum Mission (NQM). With a combined investment of Rs 720 crore, these advanced centres will be located at IIT Bombay and IISc Bengaluru. They will be equipped to develop indigenous quantum chips and sensors, reducing dependence on foreign technologies and accelerating domestic research.
Two additional smaller facilities are planned for IIT Delhi and IIT Kanpur, aimed at supporting experimental research and training.
Officials said these developments will strengthen India’s position in areas such as cryogenics, superconductivity, quantum computing, quantum sensing, photonics, healthcare technologies, and clean energy solutions, giving students and researchers access to cutting-edge infrastructure.
