06-05-2025
STL and C-DOT achieve India's first quantum-secured network breakthrough with Multi-Core Fibre
By Aditya Bhagchandani Published on May 6, 2025, 13:49 IST
Sterlite Technologies Limited (STL), in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), has announced a significant technological breakthrough—India's first successful Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) transmission using a 4-core Multi-Core Fibre (MCF) network spanning over 100 km. This pioneering achievement paves the way for a quantum-secured, future-ready communication infrastructure in India.
The demonstration took place under the Department of Telecommunications' Advanced Optical Communications Test Bed at IIT-Madras, and showcased simultaneous transmission of quantum signals in one core, while three other cores carried high-speed user data—ensuring network security without compromising bandwidth. STL's MCF cables were deployed both aerially and underground, proving compatibility with real-world infrastructure and compliance with TEC standards.
Quantum communication usually requires a separate dark fibre to protect the delicate quantum signals. However, STL and C-DOT's integration of QKD with MCF solves this challenge by separating quantum and classical signals within the same fibre. This innovation significantly reduces infrastructure costs and increases data-carrying capacity—key for India's growing 5G and 6G needs.
Commenting on the milestone, Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO of C-DOT, highlighted it as a transformative moment in India's telecom journey. Rahul Puri, CEO of STL's Optical Networking Business, added that this showcases the power of public-private partnerships in building a digitally sovereign and secure nation.
With this, STL cements its position as a global leader in optical and quantum communication technologies, advancing India's strategic digital infrastructure initiatives.
Aditya Bhagchandani serves as the Senior Editor and Writer at Business Upturn, where he leads coverage across the Business, Finance, Corporate, and Stock Market segments. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to journalistic integrity, he not only contributes insightful articles but also oversees editorial direction for the reporting team.
