India Releases First-Ever Global Strategy for Quantum Tech Engagement

New Delhi: In a landmark step to boost India’s presence in the global quantum technology landscape, 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). The announcement coincided with World Quantum Day 2025 and marks a major initiative to strengthen India’s technology diplomacy in Quantum Science, Technology and Innovation (QSTI).

The strategy was launched by Principal Scientific Adviser Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood during a special podcast event. The year 2025 holds added significance as it has been designated the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST) by the United Nations.

A Vision for Quantum Sovereignty

The ITES-Q serves as a foundational roadmap to align domestic and international stakeholders—including governments, academia, industries, and startups—with India’s goals under the National Quantum Mission (NQM). It highlights India’s intent to be at the forefront of quantum research, innovation, and adoption, both for national progress and strategic autonomy.

“Quantum is one area where no country wants to be left behind. Strategic autonomy depends on being quantum safe,” said Prof. Sood, emphasizing the urgent need to invest in quantum hardware, support startups, and create global markets and standards. He also called for reduced reliance on imports and proactive involvement in shaping international quantum standards.

Hub-and-Spoke Model for Quantum R&D

Prof. Sood underlined the NQM’s hub-and-spoke model, currently being efficiently rolled out by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The model involves 152 researchers from 43 institutions across 17 states and 2 Union Territories, covering the entire value chain from R&D to market-ready products.

Bridging Global and National Ecosystems

The ITES-Q provides an in-depth analysis of quantum technology ecosystems—both Indian and international—spanning investments, talent development, startups, intellectual property, and supply chains. It is designed to guide Indian missions abroad in building impactful bilateral and multilateral collaborations in the quantum domain.

The strategy is part of the PSA’s broader vision to elevate India’s global standing through Technology Diplomacy in emerging critical sectors like quantum computing, cybersecurity, and AI.

Access and Podcast

• Read the full ITES-Q report: psa.gov.in link
• Listen to the World Quantum Day Podcast: YouTube link