The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Tuesday inaugurated the Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) in Delhi, with the aim of further strengthening indigenous quantum capabilities for strategic and defence applications.

The facility, inaugurated by Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and DRDO chairman, Samir V Kamat, is equipped with state-of-the-art experimental set-ups designed to propel research and development in critical quantum domains.

The key capabilities of this centre include the characterisation of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers and distributed feedback lasers, test-beds for evaluating single-photon sources, set-up for characterisation of micro-fabricated alkali vapour cell, and experimental platforms for developing and validating quantum key distribution techniques to enable ultra-secure communication and safeguard national security in the post-quantum era, spearheaded by Scientific Analysis Group (SAG), DRDO.

Spearheaded by the Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), QTRC also focusses on foundational technologies, including an ultra-small atomic clock based on coherent population trapping for highly-precise timekeeping in the Global Navigation Satellite System-denied environments, an atomic magnetometer using optically pumped magnetometry for ultra-sensitive magnetic field detection, and cutting-edge solid-state quantum devices and materials.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Director General (Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems and Cyber Systems) Suma Varughese, whose vision and leadership were instrumental in conceptualising this cutting-edge facility. DG (Resource and Management) Dr Manu Korulla and directors of SSPL and SAG, senior scientists and other dignitaries attended the function.

As a key stakeholder in the national quantum mission, DRDO is committed to fostering indigenous innovation and developing sovereign quantum technologies to secure India’s strategic future.