India Secures Major Funding for Quantum Tech Startups as Country Looks to Capitalize on Revolutionary Technology

New Delhi: The Indian government has announced its support for eight groundbreaking quantum technology startups through the National Quantum Mission (NQM), setting the stage for India's emergence as a global frontrunner in this transformative field. Under the Department of Science and Technology's (DST) new guidelines, these startups have been selected to play a vital role in advancing India's quantum technology landscape.

The selection process was highly competitive, with over 300 applications narrowing down to just eight deserving projects. The funding announcement comes as India looks to capitalize on the immense potential of quantum technology to transform industries and strengthen national security and economy.

Among those shortlisted is QNu Labs, a Bengaluru-based startup that has been working on quantum technology for eight years. With an award of ₹25 crores, the company aims to deploy its technology in India and internationally. According to CEO Sunil Gupta, the recognition from the NQM comes as a significant responsibility to deliver on their promises.

Another notable startup, Prenshiq Pvt Ltd, has been working on precision diode lasers crucial for quantum communication. The company's CTO Bodhaditya Santra noted that despite infrastructure gaps in India, the support of National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NMICPS) led to creating prototypes and presenting their vision to become one of the chosen startups.

The implications of this investment are far-reaching. "This strengthens the 'Make in India' initiative," said CEO Suranita Kanjilal of Prenshiq, highlighting the benefits for national defence, security, and sustainability. By developing critical components such as precision diode lasers domestically, these startups aim to reduce reliance on foreign products and boost economic growth.

The selected startups include:

• QNu Labs: Developing quantum technology with an award of ₹25 crores
• Prenshiq Pvt Ltd: Focusing on precision diode lasers crucial for quantum communication
• QuPrayog Pvt Ltd: Working on optical atomic clocks essential for deep-space communication, defence applications, and financial transactions.

As India takes the first steps in harnessing the revolutionise world of quantum technology, it's clear that these startups play a pivotal role in shaping the country's future.