On May 6, 2025, the CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (NPL), India’s national measurement institute, hosted a significant meeting titled Focused Interaction Meeting on Indigenous Approaches to Quantum Technologies, Measurements, and Standardization. This event brought together key stakeholders to advance India’s self-reliance in the rapidly evolving field of quantum technologies, aligning with the vision of Aatmnirbhar Bharat.
A Collaborative Push for Indigenous Standards
Uniting Expertise for Quantum Advancement
The meeting saw participation from over 40 delegates, including prominent figures such as Dr. Ajai Chowdhry, Chairman of the National Quantum Mission (NQM) Governing Board, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT-Madras, and Prof. Venu Gopal Achanta, Director of CSIR-NPL. Representatives from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, ISRO, DRDO, and various academic and research institutions also contributed to the discussions. The focus was on developing indigenous standards and measurement capabilities to support India’s quantum technology ecosystem.
Key Pillars of Quantum Technology Development
Characterization, Standardization, Validation, Certification
Participants emphasized four critical pillars for advancing quantum technologies in India: characterization, standardization, validation, and certification. These pillars are essential for ensuring the reliability and trustworthiness of quantum technologies. The discussions highlighted the need for homegrown standards to foster innovation, support startups, and enhance national security applications, such as quantum cryptography for secure communications.
Role of CSIR-NPL in National Quantum Mission
Leading Quantum Metrology
Prof. Venu Gopal Achanta delivered a keynote address on Quantum Metrology and Metrology for Quantum Technologies, underscoring CSIR-NPL’s role as the custodian of India’s National Quality Infrastructure. He highlighted ongoing research and development efforts to establish new quantum standards and advocated for CSIR-NPL’s inclusion in the National Quantum Mission (NQM), launched in April 2023. This inclusion would strengthen India’s efforts toward technological sovereignty.
Dr. Ajai Chowdhry emphasized the importance of metrology and standardization for the success of NQM, urging collaboration among institutions like CSIR-NPL, C-DOT, and IIT-M Pravartak to integrate these elements into the mission’s framework.
Strategic and Defense Applications
Quantum Solutions for National Security
Representatives from the Indian Armed Forces, including Maj. Gen. Subhasis Das (Army) and Rear Admiral T. Ajit (Navy), stressed the need for rapid adoption of quantum technologies in military operations. They highlighted the importance of quantum cryptography for secure communication and called for closer collaboration between research institutions and the military to develop India-specific standards.
Why This Matters
Building a Self-Reliant Quantum Ecosystem
The meeting underscored the importance of indigenous development to achieve a Sashakt (Strong) and Aatmnirbhar (Self-Reliant) Bharat. By fostering strategic collaborations and formulating policy frameworks, India aims to create a robust quantum technology ecosystem that supports innovation, national security, and global competitiveness. The emphasis on standardization and metrology ensures that India’s quantum advancements are reliable and internationally recognized.
Key Facts About Quantum Technology and CSIR-NPL
- The Focused Interaction Meeting took place on May 6, 2025, hosted by CSIR-NPL.
- The National Quantum Mission (NQM), launched in April 2023, aims to position India as a global leader in quantum technology.
- CSIR-NPL is India’s national measurement institute, responsible for maintaining national standards and advancing quantum metrology.
- Four pillars—characterization, standardization, validation, and certification—are critical for quantum technology development.
- Applications like quantum cryptography enhance secure communication, vital for national security.