Question

Difficulty: MediumScience, Emerging Technology, and Space Missions in News

Regarding the National Quantum Mission (NQM) launched to foster quantum technology research and development in India, which of the following statements are correct?

  1. It is implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science and Technology.Answer
  2. It aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50 to 1,000 physical qubits over the mission duration.Answer
  3. C
    It restricts technology development strictly to defense applications and prohibits private sector startup participation.
  4. It sets up four thematic hubs (T-Hubs) in domains including Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices.Answer

Answer

The statements highlighting implementation by the Department of Science and Technology, target capacity of 50 to 1,000 physical qubits, and creation of four thematic hubs (T-Hubs) are correct.
The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It targets developing 50 to 1,000 physical qubit quantum computers over eight years and establishes four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices across premier institutions.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the nodal administrative body for the National Quantum Mission.
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is confirmed as the nodal implementing body.
Governance architecture assigns DST as the primary implementing agency for NQM.
2
Evaluate the technological targets and physical infrastructure established under NQM.
NQM targets 50-1,000 qubit quantum computers and establishes four T-Hubs across key quantum domains.
The mission baseline includes specific hardware milestones and 4 dedicated thematic hubs.
3
Assess the operational scope and industry participation mandate.
NQM is an inclusive mission covering startups, private industry, and civilian R&D, not restricted solely to defense.
Misinterpreting the ecosystem as defense-only ignores the broad commercial, academic, and industrial mandate.

Key Concept

Objectives, nodal agency, and thematic hubs of India's National Quantum Mission (NQM)
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