India inaugurated its first quantum reference facilities in Amaravati, marking World Quantum Day. The ‘1S Open Access Quantum Facility’ at SRM University and the ‘1Q Quantum Facility’ at Medha Towers were unveiled by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. These facilities, operating at minus 273 degrees Celsius, provide infrastructure for testing quantum computing devices and components. Andhra Pradesh now hosts the country’s first dedicated Quantum Test Reference Facility, enhancing its quantum technology capabilities.
Representatives from the National Quantum Mission, Department of Science and Technology (DST), quantum technology companies, IIT professors, and scientists attended the event. Chief Minister Naidu highlighted the historical significance of this achievement on World Quantum Day. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for supporting the establishment of the Amaravati Quantum Valley. The launch of the 1S and 1Q quantum hardware testbeds in Amaravati is seen as a significant step in advancing quantum technology.
Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, emphasized the importance of self-reliance in quantum technology. He stated that Amaravati is poised to become a national hub for AI and quantum technologies. The focus should extend beyond quantum algorithms to include atomic and cryogenic technologies for strengthening technological capabilities. The reference facilities will play a crucial role in indigenous manufacturing of quantum hardware, contributing to achieving self-reliance in this field.
