In a landmark move poised to position India at the vanguard of global quantum advancement, the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India today released the first edition of the International Technology Engagement Strategy for Quantum (ITES-Q). This pioneering document lays the foundation for India's outward-facing approach in Quantum Science, Technology and Innovation (QSTI)—with the vision to accelerate breakthrough discoveries, foster cutting-edge innovation, and drive adoption across critical sectors.

The strategy was formally launched by PSA Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood during a special podcast hosted by the Office of the PSA, commemorating World Quantum Day 2025, celebrated globally on 14 April. This year’s celebrations carry additional gravitas, with 2025 having been declared the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST) by the United Nations and its member states.

The report offers a strategic landscape analysis, crafted to assist stakeholders—domestic and international—from government, academia, and industry alike, in formulating contextual action points. These are aligned with India’s aspirations under the National Quantum Mission (NQM) and complementary initiatives being spearheaded across the ecosystem.

Highlighting the strategic significance of Quantum Technology, Prof. Sood emphasised that, “Quantum is an arena where no nation wishes to be left behind. It is central to strategic autonomy, and one cannot claim strategic autonomy without becoming quantum safe.” Addressing India's opportunities and gaps in the quantum domain, he remarked, “India must invest significantly in quantum hardware and reduce import dependencies. All-round advancements in quantum computing will play a crucial role. We must boost funding for startups and de-risk investments by nurturing robust markets for quantum products. This calls for a concerted ecosystem involving government, industry, academia, and innovators.”

He further noted, “India must proactively engage in shaping global standards in Quantum Tech. This is a void we must fill—because influencing global standards translates directly into strategic autonomy. Our market is not limited to India—it is the world.

Image Source: royalpatiala.in