India took a significant leap in advancing indigenous quantum research with the inauguration of the Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on May 27, 2025, at Metcalfe House, New Delhi. The state-of-the-art facility was inaugurated by Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO, marking a pivotal milestone in the nation’s journey towards quantum sovereignty.
Empowering Indigenous Quantum Innovation for National Security
The newly launched QTRC is envisioned to fortify India’s capabilities in quantum technologies, especially in the strategic and defence domains. This centre stands as a cornerstone in DRDO’s broader vision to ensure India’s preparedness in the post-quantum era, where quantum computing is expected to challenge conventional cryptographic and sensing systems.
Equipped with cutting-edge experimental infrastructure, QTRC is designed to accelerate research in a wide range of quantum technologies, including:
- Characterisation of Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VCSELs)
- Distributed Feedback (DFB) Lasers
- Test-beds for single-photon source evaluation
- Set-ups for Micro Fabricated Alkali Vapor Cell analysis
- Experimental platforms for Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)
The focus on Quantum Key Distribution underscores India’s commitment to developing ultra-secure communication networks, which are critical for both defence and civilian infrastructure in the face of future quantum threats.
Strategic Focus on Timekeeping, Magnetometry, and Quantum Devices
Led by DRDO’s Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), the QTRC is also working on foundational technologies vital for strategic autonomy:
- Ultra-Small Atomic Clocks based on Coherent Population Trapping – ensuring accurate timekeeping even in GNSS-denied environments.
- Atomic Magnetometers using optically pumped magnetometry – enabling highly sensitive magnetic field detection.
- Advanced solid-state quantum devices and novel materials – crucial for secure hardware-based quantum applications.
These innovations will serve as force multipliers for India’s surveillance, navigation, and secure communication networks, particularly in conflict scenarios or areas where traditional systems are rendered ineffective.
DRDO’s Role in India’s National Quantum Mission
DRDO continues to play a leading role in India’s quantum mission, pushing boundaries in:
- Quantum Sensing
- Post-Quantum Cryptography
- Secure Defence Communications
As a core partner of the National Quantum Mission, DRDO’s commitment lies in developing home-grown, sovereign quantum technologies that are tailored to the nation’s unique security and strategic challenges.
Leadership, Vision, and Collaboration
The launch event was graced by distinguished dignitaries including:
- Smt Suma Varughese, DG (Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems & Cyber Systems), whose strategic foresight was instrumental in shaping the QTRC vision.
- Dr Manu Korulla, DG (Resource & Management)
- Directors of SSPL and Scientific Analysis Group (SAG)
- Senior DRDO scientists and technologists.
Their combined efforts underscore the collaborative ecosystem being nurtured to propel India to the forefront of global quantum research and defence readiness.
Conclusion
With the inauguration of QTRC, DRDO has taken a transformative step toward building a quantum-resilient India. By investing in indigenous R&D capabilities, India is not only securing its strategic future but also paving the way for becoming a global hub in quantum technologies. The centre promises to be a breeding ground for next-generation innovations that will redefine the future of defence, space, communication, and intelligence in the quantum age.
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