The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a flagship initiative and a scheme launched by the Government of India to foster scientific and industrial research and development in quantum technologies. The Union Cabinet approved the mission on April 19, 2023, with a total outlay of ₹6,003.65 crore for the period 2023-2024 to 2030-2031. The mission was created to establish India as a global leader in Quantum Technologies and Applications (QTA) and to achieve strategic autonomy in critical areas like quantum security, positioning India as the seventh country with a dedicated quantum mission.
The NQM is implemented by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science & Technology. Its mechanism centers on establishing four dedicated Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in top academic and R&D institutions, which operate under a hub-and-spoke model. These T-Hubs focus on four key domains: Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices. Key provisions include the target to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits within eight years. The mission also aims to establish satellite-based secure quantum communications over a range of 2000 kilometers within India and inter-city quantum key distribution (QKD) over the same distance.
The NQM connects directly to national initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) by aiming to secure critical infrastructure and reduce dependence on foreign technology. Related institutions involved include the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which is developing QKD satellites, and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which leads the design and testing of quantum-safe security schemes. The mission has recently seen the approval of 23 academic institutions to set up quantum teaching laboratories to build skilled manpower. There has been no replacement or amendment to the core mission structure since its approval in April 2023.