Insider Brief
- A Niti Aayog study calls for a broad quantum computing strategy to maintain India’s technological competitiveness, emphasizing research, education, industry collaboration, and security preparedness.
- The report outlines key advances in quantum computing, including improvements in qubit coherence, error correction, diverse qubit modalities, and quantum-resistant encryption, highlighting their impact on national security and economic growth.
- The study recommends establishing national quantum research centers, increasing interdisciplinary funding, and forming a coordinated task force to oversee development, warning that India risks falling behind without a structured approach.
India must adopt a broad quantum computing strategy to secure its technological future, according to a new study from a national think tank.
A report published in the March 2025 edition of Future Front®, Niti Aayog’s quarterly technology insights publication, outlines the importance of quantum computing and its implications for national security, economic growth, and global competitiveness. By “multi-pronged” strategy, the study, produced in collaboration with the Data Security Council of India, means that India’s position in the quantum computing race depends on coordinated efforts across research, education, industry partnerships and security preparedness. India, in fact, has a wealth of advantages in those areas, the report suggest, but must improve coordination.
Writing in the report, BVR Subrahmanyam, CEO of NITI Aayog, writes: “Quantum technologies will play a defining role in securing critical infrastructure, strengthening defense capabilities, and safeguarding our digital sovereignty. However, leadership in this domain will require more than technological prowess—it demands a bold vision, strong policy frameworks, and an ecosystem that fosters cutting-edge research, talent development and large-scale deployment.”
The Indian government launched the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in 2023, budgeting 6,003 crore to build the country’s quantum ecosystem, according to the Economic Times.
Niti Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is a public policy think tank for the Indian government.
A Multi-Pronged Strategy
The study recommends a comprehensive approach with several key components:
- Investment in Research and Development: The report stresses the need for substantial government funding to support both basic and applied research. It recommends the creation of dedicated labs and research centers to explore quantum algorithms, materials, and hardware development. These facilities would serve as incubators for next-generation ideas and ensure that India remains competitive on the global stage.
- Education and Skill Development: Recognizing that technology is only as effective as the talent behind it, the study calls for the expansion of academic programs in physics, computer science, and engineering. By fostering a new generation of quantum scientists and engineers, India can build a workforce capable of advancing research and translating discoveries into commercial applications.
- Public-Private Partnerships: The report urges closer collaboration between government agencies, academic institutions, and the private sector. Such partnerships would facilitate the sharing of knowledge and resources, driving innovation through a collective effort. Industry experts, as cited in the study, argue that bringing together diverse perspectives is essential to accelerate progress and overcome technical hurdles.
- International Collaboration and Standards: While emphasizing self-reliance, the study also acknowledges that quantum computing is a global challenge. It recommends that India actively engage in international forums and standard-setting bodies to ensure that its interests are represented and to benefit from shared advancements in the field.
- Regulatory and Security Frameworks: With the potential to break existing cryptographic systems, quantum computing poses a unique threat to national security. The study highlights the need to develop quantum-resistant encryption methods and robust regulatory frameworks to safeguard critical infrastructure and data. This dual focus on innovation and security is seen as crucial for maintaining both economic competitiveness and public safety.
Quantum Computing Advances
The Niti Aayog report states that the urgency for a quantum computing strategy is intensified because of the dramatic advances that scientists are making in quantum technologies, although challenges remain. The report lists details of several key advances in quantum computing that are shaping the field globally. These developments include improvements in qubit stability, error correction, and quantum algorithms, all of which bring quantum systems closer to practical applications. The advances include:
Longer Qubit Coherence: Qubits, the fundamental units of quantum computation, must maintain their quantum state long enough to perform complex calculations. The report highlights recent breakthroughs in extending qubit coherence times, particularly through neutral atom architectures, which have demonstrated significantly improved stability.
Enhanced Qubit Control and Fidelity High-fidelity operations are critical for executing reliable quantum computations. Advancements in superconducting and trapped-ion qubit technologies have resulted in more accurate quantum gate operations, reducing computational errors and making quantum processors more dependable.
Progress in Quantum Error Correction: Quantum computers are highly sensitive to noise, requiring robust error correction techniques. The report points to new hardware-based error correction methods, including Google’s Willow chip, which integrates self-correcting mechanisms to improve computational stability. Additionally, research into surface codes and topological qubits is advancing fault-tolerant quantum computing.
Diversity in Qubit Modalities Rather than a single dominant approach, the field is progressing through multiple competing qubit designs. The report notes that superconducting circuits, trapped ions, photonic qubits, and neutral atoms are all being explored for scalability and performance. This diversity ensures that the field remains flexible, allowing breakthroughs in one area to influence others.
Developments in Topological Qubits Topological qubits are considered a promising approach for reducing errors at the hardware level. Microsoft’s Majorana-based qubit research is among the efforts in this area, aiming to create more stable quantum processors that require less external error correction.
Advances in Quantum Algorithms and Software Beyond hardware, progress is being made in quantum algorithms that improve computational efficiency. Quantum machine learning, optimization, and simulation techniques are expanding the range of problems quantum computers can solve. Leading companies and research institutions are also refining quantum programming languages, making it easier to develop practical applications.
Maturing Quantum Ecosystem and Supply Chain The report notes that a growing network of suppliers and manufacturers is emerging to support quantum computing. Advances in specialized materials, cryogenic systems, and quantum chip fabrication are moving the industry toward scalable, commercially viable quantum systems.
National Security and Economic Implications
The report states that quantum computing’s ability to solve complex problems could lead to advances in industries such as healthcare, logistics, and finance. Quantum algorithms could improve drug discovery, optimize supply chains, and enhance financial modeling.
At the same time, the technology could disrupt cybersecurity by rendering current encryption methods obsolete. The study warns that countries with early access to quantum computing will have a strategic advantage in intelligence gathering and defense.
A Coordinated Effort And Long-Term Commitment
The report proposes a national strategy that includes establishing quantum research centers, increasing funding for interdisciplinary research, and forming a task force to oversee implementation. It states that a fragmented approach could result in inefficiencies, while a coordinated effort would maximize investment impact.
The report notes that countries investing in quantum computing will shape global technology standards and influence international regulations. Without a clear national strategy, India risks falling behind in a field that is expected to define future economic and security landscapes.
The study acknowledges that widespread adoption of quantum computing will take time but emphasizes that early investments are necessary to build the infrastructure and expertise needed for long-term success. It points to the importance of sustained funding and policy support to ensure India remains competitive.
Industry and Academic Perspectives
The study also includes input from researchers and industry leaders who stress the urgency of quantum investments.
One report considers that the transition from theoretical research to practical, scalable quantum computing as a critical juncture in technology today, one that India must seize to build a resilient and forward-looking ecosystem.
Industry representatives suggest that a well-supported quantum strategy could attract private investment and foster commercial applications. The report states that building a robust quantum ecosystem would position India as a global leader in quantum research and innovation.
Moving Forward
The study provides a roadmap for India’s quantum computing strategy, recommending targeted investments, workforce development, and security measures. It concludes that a well-planned, multi-pronged approach would ensure that India remains competitive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Subrahmanyam writes: “Our future success hinges on our ability to proactively harness transformative technologies for inclusive economic growth and national security. Among these, quantum computing stands as a revolutionary force—one that has the potential to fundamentally reshape problem-solving, cryptography and strategic decision-making.”
The goal is the creation of a “Frontier Tech Nation”, Debjani Ghosh, Distinguished Fellow, NITI Aayog; Chief Architect, NITI Frontier Tech Hub.
“At the NITI Frontier Tech Hub, our mission is to position India as a Frontier Tech Nation,” Ghosh writes. “We actively engage with experts to build deep insights and accelerate India’s readiness in emerging technologies — fostering innovation, driving adoption, and ensuring economic and societal progress.”
