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India's Quantum Mission Hits 1,000-Km Secure Network Milestone in 3 Years

India's National Quantum Mission has achieved a significant milestone by establishing a 1,000-kilometer secure quantum communication network in less than three years, far ahead of its initial schedule. The network, developed using indigenous technology by supported startup QNu Labs, represents one of the world's longest deployments of quantum key distribution (QKD) for ultra-secure data transfer. This advancement is crucial for strengthening secure communications in critical sectors like defence, banking, and infrastructure, and it functions even in challenging environments. Concurrently, the mission is expanding, now supporting 17 quantum startups working on computing, sensing, and healthcare technologies, reflecting growing industry interest in government-backed research.

Key Points: India's Quantum Mission Achieves 1,000-Km Secure Network

  • 1,000-km quantum network built in under 3 years
  • Uses indigenous tech from startup QNu Labs
  • Among world's longest quantum key deployments
  • Supports 17 startups in quantum sector
  • Key for defence, banking & infrastructure security
2 min read

National Quantum Mission clocks 1,000-km secure network in under 3 years: MoS

India's National Quantum Mission builds a 1,000-km quantum communication network in under 3 years, a major leap for secure data and cybersecurity.

"a landmark in secure communication - Dr. Abhay Karandikar"

New Delhi, April 8

India's ambitious National Quantum Mission has achieved a major breakthrough, building a 1,000-kilometre secure quantum communication network in less than three years of its launch, Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh said on Wednesday.

Launched in October 2024, the mission had set a target of developing a 2,000-km quantum communication network over eight years.

Achieving half that distance in under three years is being seen as a major leap, signalling rapid progress in India's quantum capabilities.

During the meeting, Dr. Jitendra Singh stressed the need for transparency, better evaluation systems and wider awareness about government funding schemes.

He also called for stronger communication efforts to highlight India's scientific achievements globally.

The network has been developed using indigenous technology by QNu Labs, a startup supported under the mission that focuses on quantum-safe cybersecurity solutions.

Officials noted that this is among the longest quantum key distribution (QKD) deployments in the world.

DST Secretary Dr. Abhay Karandikar described the development as a landmark in secure communication, saying it reflects progress ahead of planned timelines.

Quantum communication, which uses advanced encryption techniques, is considered crucial for ensuring highly secure data transfer.

The technology is expected to play a key role in strengthening secure communications in sectors such as defence, banking and critical infrastructure.

Officials added that it can work even in difficult environments, including underwater and underground networks, widening its scope for both civilian and strategic use.

Alongside this achievement, the government is also expanding its support to startups in the quantum sector.

Nine new startups have been added under the mission, taking the total number of supported ventures to 17.

These startups are working on a range of advanced technologies, including quantum computing, sensing, biosensors for disease detection and precision electronic systems.

The review also showed growing interest from industry in government-backed research and innovation funding.

The Technology Development Board has received over 100 proposals within two months, while the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council has seen nearly 200 applications in areas such as cancer research, gene therapy and bio-manufacturing.

To support startups, the government is also using new funding tools like optionally convertible debt, which allows companies to raise funds without immediate equity dilution and attract private investment.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
A landmark achievement indeed. Secure communication for defence and banking is critical. My only respectful criticism is about the "wider awareness" the MoS mentioned. As a tech professional, I feel these groundbreaking missions need much better public communication. The common person should know why this matters.
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Vikram M
Indigenous technology, ahead of schedule, and supporting startups – this is how we build Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the tech sector. Kudos to the scientists and the DST. The focus on funding tools to help startups without equity dilution is a very smart move.
S
Sarah B
Impressive progress. Being among the longest QKD deployments globally puts India on the map in a cutting-edge field. The applications in biosensors and disease detection mentioned are equally exciting. Hope the research translates to affordable healthcare solutions.
R
Rohit P
Bahut badhiya! 🚀 This is the kind of news that makes me proud. From quantum networks to cancer research proposals, it shows a holistic push for science. The fact that it works in difficult environments like underwater is a game-changer for our coastal and strategic networks.
K
Kavya N
Great to see the startup ecosystem being nurtured like this – 9 new startups added! The quantum mission seems to be delivering on both infrastructure and entrepreneurship. Now we need to ensure these technologies are adopted by our industries and don't just remain lab successes.

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