Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has announced the launch of the inaugural call for proposals aimed at supporting startups in Quantum Technologies, as part of the National Quantum Mission. This initiative introduces new guidelines designed to foster and advance quantum technology startups.
The DST has endorsed the detailed guidelines formulated by the National Quantum Mission (NQM) to assist and promote startups within the quantum technology sector. These guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for startups to access critical resources, funding, mentorship, and infrastructure. As highlighted by Professor Ajay K Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, these new policies and guidelines will enable India to strengthen its position in the global quantum technology arena. The evolving nature of this field will necessitate ongoing adjustments to these guidelines as new insights emerge.
Prof. Abhay Karandikar emphasized that the flexible guidelines are expected to cultivate a robust ecosystem for quantum technology startups. “Emerging and mid-stage startups stand to benefit significantly from this initiative, particularly in such a pivotal area of deep tech. This will contribute to India’s ambition of becoming a global leader in quantum technologies. We are currently refining funding mechanisms and equity structures to ensure timely results from the Mission,” he noted.
The guidelines detail the criteria for eligibility, selection procedures, evaluation, funding mechanisms, and additional elements such as progress monitoring and access to facilities. By offering targeted support, the aim is to foster an environment conducive to innovation, creating job opportunities and boosting economic growth. Given that quantum technology is still in its early stages in India, these guidelines are crucial for bridging the gap between research and commercial application. Shri Ajai Chowdhry, Chairman of the Mission Governing Board, remarked that the Indian startup community is taking the Quantum Mission seriously, and these guidelines are pivotal in achieving the intended transformation.
The initiative is currently being managed by the I-Hub Quantum Technology Foundation (QTF) at IISER Pune, established under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). The foundation is inviting proposals to support quantum startups, with plans to transition to additional hubs under the Quantum Mission. This proactive strategy underscores the government’s commitment to nurturing a dynamic quantum technology startup ecosystem in India. Startups interested in participating are urged to review the comprehensive guidelines and submit their proposals to I-Hub QTF at IISER Pune by the deadline of August 31, 2024. The event was attended by Prof. Sunil S. Bhagwat, Director of IISER Pune; Shri. Srikant Sastri, Chairman of the Geospatial Data Promotion & Development Committee (GDPDC); Dr. Ekta Kapoor, Head of the FFT Division at DST; Dr. JBV Reddy, Mission Director of NQM; Dr. Swat Rawal Dang, NQM; and Dr. D V Phani Kumar, NQM, along with several quantum technology professionals.
