The collaborative session for the pre-proposal call of the Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) under the National Quantum Mission (NQM) brought together quantum science researchers and technologists from across India, eager to participate in this landmark initiative.
Professor Ajay Sood, the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, emphasized the integral connection between quantum science and technologies, highlighting the need for synergy. He explained the creation of hubs, each with technical groups involving participation from multiple institutes.
Expressing satisfaction at the enthusiasm of researchers and technologists, Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), described the ambitious project’s significant investments. He outlined the mission’s governance structure and the call for proposals to establish T-hubs in computing, communication, sensing, and devices through consortia.
The brainstorming meeting aimed to raise awareness among researchers, foster synergy among technical groups, and encourage networking. Professor Karandikar expressed optimism about launching impactful research activities on a national and global scale.
Dr. Akhilesh Gupta, Senior Adviser at DST, highlighted the unique experiment of working in consortia mode with the industry for rapid mission outcomes.
Dignitaries engaged with over 400 in-person and 150 online participants from institutions nationwide, addressing queries about the pre-proposal call for T-Hubs.
DST is committed to providing necessary resources to support successful pre-proposal submissions and facilitate researchers. The NQM, implemented by DST, aims to collaborate with industry and startups to translate research into deployable technologies, positioning India competitively in quantum science and technologies globally.
