• DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V. Kamat inaugurates Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) in Delhi
• QTRC to focus on secure communication, atomic clocks, quantum sensors, and post-quantum cryptography
• Centre strengthens India’s indigenous quantum capabilities for strategic and defence applications under National Quantum Mission

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman Dr Samir V. Kamat launched the Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) at Metcalfe House in Delhi.

With very advanced experimental set-ups, intended to accelerate research and development in key quantum areas, QTRC aims to further consolidate indigenous quantum capability for strategic and defence purposes.

The centre's key facilities include characterization of surface-emitting lasers and distributed feedback lasers; test-beds for single-photon source evaluation; characterization of microfabricated alkali vapor cells set-up; and experimental platforms for developing and validating quantum key distribution methods for ultra-secure communication and the protection of national security in the post-quantum future.

QTRC also emphasizes core technologies such as an ultra-small atomic clock based on coherent population trapping for extremely accurate timekeeping in global navigation satellite system-denied environments, an atomic magnetometer based on optically pumped magnetometry for ultra-sensitive magnetic field detection, and advanced solid-state quantum devices and materials.

DRDO is spearheading India's quantum efforts across verticals like quantum sensing, secure communication, and post-quantum cryptography, the defence ministry said in a statement, further adding, "As a major stakeholder of the National Quantum Mission, DRDO is dedicated to promoting indigenous innovation and creating sovereign quantum technologies to ensure India's strategic future".