In a major stride toward enhancing India’s strategic technological edge, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) inaugurated the Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) at Metcalfe House, Delhi, on May 27, 2025. The centre was inaugurated by the Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Dr Samir V Kamat, and is aimed at advancing indigenous capabilities in quantum technologies for critical strategic and defence applications.

Equipped with cutting-edge experimental infrastructure, QTRC is poised to become a cornerstone of DRDO’s quantum research initiatives. The facility includes state-of-the-art setups for characterising Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) and Distributed Feedback Lasers, as well as test-beds to evaluate single-photon sources. It also features a dedicated set-up for the characterisation of Micro Fabricated Alkali Vapour Cells and platforms to develop and validate Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) techniques—crucial for enabling ultra-secure communication in the post-quantum era. These efforts are led by the Scientific Analysis Group (SAG), DRDO.

The Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL) spearheads foundational research at QTRC, focusing on next-generation quantum devices. Key initiatives include the development of an Ultra-Small Atomic Clock based on Coherent Population Trapping for precise timekeeping in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-denied environments, an Atomic Magnetometer leveraging optically pumped magnetometry for ultra-sensitive magnetic field detection, and the advancement of novel solid-state quantum devices and materials.

As a principal force behind India’s quantum mission, DRDO remains committed to developing sovereign quantum technologies that reinforce national security. Its contributions span quantum sensing, secure communications, and post-quantum cryptography, aligning with its critical role in the National Quantum Mission.

The inauguration was attended by Director General (Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems & Cyber Systems) Suma Varughese, whose leadership was pivotal in conceptualising the QTRC. Also present were Dr Manu Korulla, DG (Resource & Management), directors of SSPL and SAG, senior scientists, and other dignitaries.

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