New Delhi [India], April 14 (ANI): The Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India has published the inaugural edition of the International Technology Engagement Strategy for Quantum. This publication represents an important move towards defining India’s approach to Quantum Science, Technology, and Innovation (QSTI) with international collaboration in mind.

The release aimed to speed up discoveries, promote innovations, and spur uptake across key industries.

The unveiling of the report was conducted officially by PSA. Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood During the PSA's Office podcast commemorating World Quantum Day 2025, which falls annually on April 14th.

The importance of this report is heightened due to 2025 marking the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST), as proclaimed by the United Nations and its member states.

This strategic document offers an essential overview of the current landscape to help both local and international participants within governmental bodies, academic institutions, and private enterprises devise targeted initiatives tailored to their objectives. These actions will support the aspirations outlined under India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM) as well as other concurrent projects led by different organizations and contributors across the sector.

Discussing the significance of Quantum Technology, Professor Sood emphasized that this field is one where no nation wishes to lag behind due to its crucial role in maintaining strategic independence. He pointed out that true strategic autonomy cannot be achieved without ensuring a country’s security in the realm of quantum technology.

When discussing opportunities and challenges within the industry specific to India, he remarked, “For India, investing in Quantum technology infrastructure is crucial; reducing reliance on imported components should be prioritized. Progress across various aspects of quantum computing could significantly aid this effort. It’s essential to allocate greater resources towards nurturing new businesses and mitigate risks associated with investments—this entails developing viable marketplaces for these innovations. In achieving this vision, every stakeholder—from governmental bodies and corporate entities to educational institutions and emerging firms—must collaborate to foster an enabling environment.”

"We must take an proactive role in shaping the international standards for Quantum Technology. Addressing this void is crucial as it will enable us to contribute significantly to standardization initiatives, which ultimately fosters strategic independence. It’s essential that we act assertively to establish these global benchmarks since our marketplace extends beyond India and encompasses a worldwide audience," he emphasized.

When discussing NQM, Professor Sood pointed out that the department within the Ministry of Science and Technology (DST), led by the secretary, has been implementing the initiative with great efficiency. This program examines the entire lifecycle of this cutting-edge technology—from necessary research and development to transforming those developments into technological advancements and ultimately producing goods for widespread commercial use.

He further elaborated on the main aspects of the hub-and-spoke model that NQM is deploying nationwide, which includes participation from 152 researchers affiliated with 43 institutions spread across 17 states and 2 union territories.

The first issue of ITES-Q offers an extensive look at both international and domestic quantum environments, examining aspects such as financial investments, educational initiatives, organizational capabilities, scholarly articles, patents, emerging companies, distribution networks, and commercial actions. Designed with the aim of fostering significant collaborations, ITES-Q aims specifically to enhance the endeavors of India’s overseas missions in bolstering mutual relationships and multi-party interactions related to QSTI.

The complete ITES-Q report can be found on the Office of PSA website. https://psa.gov.in/CMS/web/sites/default/files/publication/ITES_QWEBSITE1.pdf

The World Quantum Day 2025 podcast featuring PSA can be accessed here: https://youtu.be/454E5OY2ygA

The ITES is an initiative launched by the Office of the PSA for the Government of India aimed at enhancing and supporting India's technological diplomacy initiatives in crucial and developing sectors. (ANI)