Four Thematic Hubs and an outlay for eight years: how the National Quantum Mission is built

Background

The National Quantum Mission is being run with an outlay of ₹6003.65 crore for a period of eight years. Its work is organised around four Thematic Hubs, each set up at a leading institute and each taking one technology vertical. Quantum computing sits with IISc Bengaluru. Quantum communication is with IIT Madras, working together with C-DoT. Quantum sensing and metrology is with IIT Bombay, and quantum materials and devices with IIT Delhi. The Hubs together hold 14 Technical Groups and 17 Project Teams, drawing 152 researchers from 43 institutions. The Mission also pays for two major quantum fabrication facilities at IISc Bengaluru and IIT Bombay, with smaller facilities at IIT Delhi and IIT Kanpur. It has issued guidelines of its own to back quantum start-ups with funding, with access to fabrication facilities and with expert mentorship.