National Quantum Mission (NQM)
About this scheme
The National Quantum Mission (NQM), under the Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, supports research and development in advanced quantum technologies, such as quantum computing and secure quantum communication. The mission aims to build India's cutting-edge capabilities and strengthen its global competitiveness in future technologies.
OBJECTIVES
• The National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to seed, nurture and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT) in the country.
• As part of the mission, four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) will be established as Section-8 Companies, not-for-profit entities, within premier academic institutions and national research and development labs. These T-Hubs will specialize in four distinct technology verticals: Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices
Benefits
• Funding and institutional support for quantum R&D, prototypes, product development, and commercialisation through NQM T-Hubs.
• Startup support can include seed/prototype funding and scale-up support routed through T-Hubs/TIHs.
• Creation of skilled manpower, research infrastructure, and industry-academia collaboration in quantum technologies.
Who is Eligible
(a) A startup, should be registered by DPIIT at the time of application. If not registered, funds will only be released after successful registration by DPIIT.
(b) The startup must have a business idea to develop a product or a service with a market fit, viable commercialization, and scope of scaling.
(c) The startup should be using technology in its core product or service, or business model, or distribution model, or methodology to solve the problem being targeted.
(d) Only for ‘Indian Companies’ defined as ‘holding company registered in India’, and ‘IP resides in India’, and ‘majority owned in India’.
(e) Shareholding by Indian promoters in the startup should be at least 51%, as per Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018.
How to Apply
Offline
- Startups apply through online calls/challenges; applications are evaluated on need, feasibility, impact, novelty, team strength, and fund-utilization plan.
- Other applicants apply through DST/NQM calls or the relevant Thematic Hub (T-Hub) based on the focus area.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card or any Government-issued Photo ID of the applicant.
- Institution/Organization Affiliation Certificate (or Startup Registration Certificate, if applicable).
- Detailed Project Proposal describing the research, innovation, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
- Bank Account Details (Cancelled Cheque/Bank Passbook copy) for fund transfer.
Who Is Not Eligible
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the National Quantum Mission (NQM)?
The National Quantum Mission is a flagship initiative of the Government of India that supports research, innovation, and development in advanced quantum technologies, including quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing, and quantum materials.
- Which ministry implements the National Quantum Mission?
The mission is implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India.
- What is the main objective of the mission?
The mission aims to build India's capabilities in quantum technologies, promote scientific research, develop skilled human resources, encourage startups, and strengthen India's global competitiveness.
- Who can apply under the National Quantum Mission?
Eligible applicants may include research institutions, universities, academic organizations, startups, industries, scientists, and researchers, depending on the specific programme or funding call.
- Does the mission support startups?
Yes. The mission provides support for quantum technology startups through funding, incubation, mentorship, and commercialization initiatives.
- Is there any financial assistance under the mission?
Yes. Financial assistance is provided under various components based on the approved project, programme, or startup proposal.
- What types of projects are supported?
Projects related to quantum computing, secure quantum communication, quantum sensors, quantum materials, quantum devices, and other emerging quantum technologies are supported.
- How are applications evaluated?
Applications undergo a technical and scientific evaluation by expert committees based on innovation, feasibility, impact, and alignment with the mission objectives.
- Can startups collaborate with academic institutions?
Yes. Collaboration between startups, research institutions, academia, and industry is encouraged under the mission.
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