The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) on April 19, 2023, at a total cost of ₹6,003.65 crore (approximately USD 730 million) from 2023-24 to 2030-31. According to the Department of Science and Technology, the mission targets developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50 to 1,000 physical qubits in eight years across superconducting and photonic platforms.
Additional objectives include satellite-based secure quantum communications between ground stations over 2,000 km within India, inter-city quantum key distribution over 2,000 km, and multi-node quantum networks with quantum memories. Four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) would be established in top academic and national R&D institutes covering quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum materials and devices.
Union Minister Anurag Thakur called it “one such decision that will take India to new heights.” Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said the NQM would “accelerate quantum technology-led economic growth.” With the approval, India joined the US, Austria, Finland, France, and China as the sixth nation with a dedicated quantum mission.