National Quantum Mission (NQM) to achieve a 2,000 km quantum communication network by the second half of 2027, four years ahead of its 8-year plan.
The NQM had set a target of establishing a 2,000 km quantum communication network over 8 years since its launch in 2024-25. However, with 1,000 kilometres already completed in the first two years, the entire network will be completed by 2027.
India’s progress in quantum security
“We are world-class [in quantum security] because the highest amount of quantum secure network is now developed and installed in India,” said Ajai Chowdhry, Chairman of Mission Governing Board of NQM, while speaking to businessline.
Quantum networks are required to ensure highly secure pathways of data transfer, especially when using quantum computers. Earlier, the NQM had anticipated a decade before the threat of quantum hacking, in which a powerful quantum computer attempts to break through cybersecurity measures. However, with recent developments over the past month, NQM noted reports claiming D-day could be as early as 2029.
Focus on indigenous capabilities
While stressing that telecom, banking and finance, security, intelligence, defence, and electrical grids particularly heed such threats, Chowdhry said, “The good news is that the hardware and software required for doing this is available indigenously and we are specifically stating that we should use indigenous products.”
This, in turn, means the country does not need to import quantum components, which are expected to face heavy export sanctions globally going forward.
Quantum computing roadmap
Quantum computer
Regarding NQM’s other goals, such as quantum computing, Chowdhry said the 1,000-qubit quantum computer should be ready within the next 4 to 5 years.
“We will have a good, powerful quantum computer available in the next 4-5 years to be utilized for different applications. One of the biggest benefits of this will be AI,” said Chowdhry
The Chairman expected AI and quantum to work “beautifully together”, especially as future data centres are expected to be a mix of hybrid quantum and classical systems.
India’s global standing and opportunities
When asked about India’s status in the global ecosystem, Chowdhry said the country is leading in quantum communication and sensing but lags in quantum computing.
“In quantum computing we are a little behind [compared to other countries] but doesn’t matter. Supposing sanctions come out then even a 1,000 qubit would be good enough,” he said, pointing out that India is also working on additional technologies like superconducting, photonics, semiconductor technology and ion and neutral atoms.
Further, Indian startups are exporting their products to the US, with some software companies interested in integrating them into US systems, where they are also implementing quantum-safe networks.
“There is a global market for this,” said Chowdhry.
Published on April 14, 2026