India Soon To Launch Its First Quantum Computer

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research's (TIFR's) Jay Deshmukh (left) and Binoy Nambiar of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) working on a dilution refrigerator used to cool superconducting qubits; (Photo: Mandar Deodhar | Source – IndiaToday.in)

India is making significant strides in the field of quantum computing. The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in Mumbai is on the verge of completing the country's first quantum computer. This groundbreaking achievement is a testament to the relentless efforts of the Quantum Measurement and Control (QuMaC) lab, which was established 12 years ago with the specific goal of tackling the complex challenges inherent in quantum system development.

Led by Dr. R. Vijayaraghavan, QuMaC views this initial quantum computer as a pivotal stepping stone for India's foray into the burgeoning field of quantum technology. The project, undertaken in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), involves designing critical components such as the quantum processing unit, electronics, and software—each presenting its own intricate challenges.

For uninitiated, quantum computers, leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics, hold immense promise for revolutionizing fields ranging from drug discovery and materials science to cryptography and artificial intelligence. While still in its nascent stages, this breakthrough by TIFR marks a crucial step for India in joining the global race to harness the power of quantum computing.

TIFR, in its pursuit of creating India’s first quantum computer, has partnered with two key entities: the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). The collaboration with DRDO brings expertise in defense technology and research. DRDO’s involvement likely focuses on security applications and potential military use cases for quantum computing.

Together with TIFR, DRDO contributes to the design and development of critical components, including the quantum processing unit, electronics, and software.

TCS collaborates with TIFR to create the necessary software stack for the quantum computer. This includes programming languages, compilers, and tools to harness the quantum hardware efectively.

Additionally, TCS may contribute insights into practical applications of quantum computing across various domains.

It may be recalled that in June, IndianWeb2 reported that the Government of India is looking to work with IT services majors like TCS, HCL and Tech Mahindra to develop software for quantum technologies under the NQM, which will support Indian startups and scientists working in the emerging area.

Besides this, Indian Institute of Science (IISc) too launched its Quantum Technology Initiative (IQTI) in September 2020. The initiative aims to establish a solid foundation for quantum technologies by fostering collaborations between physicists, material scientists, computer scientists, and engineers. It actively engages with businesses and strategic partners to develop technology with economic and social impact

Additionally, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi is also working on an indigenous room-temperature quantum computer that will use photons for faster calculations.

Advertisements