Latest news with #NQM
Hans India
2 hours ago
- Business
- Hans India
Let shortcomings in semiconductor sector be avoided in quantum mission: MP
Bengaluru: It is evident from the Union Government's response in Parliament that the Semicon India initiative, launched in 2021 with the ambitious aim of generating one million employment opportunities, has fallen significantly short of its original projections. In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, the Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Shri Jitin Prasada, revealed that the initiative is now expected to generate just over 27,000 direct jobs, a figure far below the original target set by the Centre. Reacting to this development, Member of Parliament from Raichur and Yadgir, G. Kumar Naik, cautioned that the shortcomings witnessed in the semiconductor sector must not be repeated in the National Quantum Mission (NQM). In a statement, MP Naik observed that the revised employment estimates indicate a substantial gap between announcement and implementation. 'Despite the scale of India's demographic dividend and the urgent imperative of employment generation, Semicon India has remained largely a policy statement with limited tangible outcomes on the ground,' he noted. The MP further expressed concern that excessive centralisation, unrealistic timelines, and delays in procedural clearances have dampened investor confidence, thereby impeding India's progress in the global semiconductor ecosystem. 'It is imperative that the Union Government ensures these challenges are not replicated as we embark on the path of quantum technology development,' MP Naik stated. He added that centralised control, unrealistic timelines, and the shortage of skilled talent were among the major reasons for the underperformance of the semiconductor initiative. Therefore, he emphasised that the Quantum Mission must allow for state-led innovations and a decentralised approach. MP Naik strongly endorsed the proactive steps undertaken by the State of Karnataka, under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister Shri D.K. Shivakumar, who have outlined a clear vision to position Karnataka as a global quantum innovation hub. He also appreciated the coordinated interdepartmental efforts led by Karnataka's Minister for Science and Technology Shri N.S. Boseraju, IT/BT and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj Minister Shri Priyank Kharge, Higher Education Minister Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, and Large & Medium Scale Industries Minister Shri M.B. Patil. 'Such collaboration among departments is a model for quantum-focused governance and highlights the strength of Centre-State cooperation,' MP Naik remarked. 'Karnataka stands prepared to lead a quantum transformation by applying the lessons learned from the semiconductor sector. The State's progress demonstrates the value of aligning national missions with regional capacities and leadership. It is now incumbent upon the Union Government to act with foresight and foster a truly cooperative federal model for the successful implementation of the National Quantum Mission,' he urged.
Fashion Value Chain
a day ago
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Strangeworks Expands Global Presence to India and Sri Lanka
Strangeworks is expanding its global footprint with a significant expansion into the Indian market, with additional reach in Sri Lanka. This strategic move adds to the already strong presence in the US, Europe, and Japan, and brings the transformative potential of quantum and AI to enterprises across this rapidly advancing region. India is emerging as a powerhouse in quantum and AI innovation, with government initiatives like the National Quantum Mission (NQM) signaling a strong, long-term investment in developing homegrown quantum capabilities and a highly skilled workforce. Fueled by dynamic startups, world-class research institutions, and a booming demand for next-gen solutions in sectors like energy, finance, pharma, logistics, and manufacturing, this region is a perfect fit for Strangeworks. Strangeworks Expands Global Presence to India and Sri Lanka By simplifying access to the widest range of advanced compute hardware and software technologies, Strangeworks empowers researchers and subject matter experts to more easily formulate, model, analyze, and deploy enterprise solutions to their complex optimization, machine learning, and simulation problems, without needing a PhD in quantum mechanics to get started. This regional expansion also builds on Strangeworks successful collaboration with BQP, a Quantum-Accelerated Digital Twin software company with Indian origin. Since 2022, the two companies have worked together to advance the area of Quantum algorithms and applications for Indias quantum ecosystem and broadly its industries. They demonstrated high-performance engineering simulations for race cars, which showcase how quantum-inspired algorithms can deliver valuable business outcomes today. To lead this growth, Strangeworks has appointed Pathy Iyer as Director of India Sales and Marketing. Based in Bengaluru, Iyer brings nearly 30 years of experience driving business development in education and research technology across companies like HP, Agilent, and Keysight. He will play a key role in building strategic partnerships and deepening customer relationships throughout the region. 'Indias bold investments in quantum and AI make it one of the most exciting markets on the planet,' said Steven Gibson, Chief Commercial Officer of Strangeworks. 'With Pathy at the helm and strong regional partnerships in place, were bolstering our mission to democratize advanced computing globally.' Pathy Iyer said, 'I am honored to join Strangeworks and lead its expansion into India and Sri Lanka. The potential for quantum and AI technologies to revolutionize industries here is immense. I look forward to working closely with our customers and partners to leverage Strangeworks unparalleled platform to solve complex challenges and drive innovation across the region.' About Strangeworks Headquartered in Austin, TX, Strangeworks is on a mission to turn computational complexity into real world solutions. With the largest catalog of quantum and quantum-inspired computing resources on an innovative cloud platform backed by computational experts, we make the transformative potential of quantum computing accessible to all. Our AI powered workflows make it easier for enterprises to solve todays toughest challenges, accelerate breakthroughs, and future-proof their operations. Partnering with customers worldwide, Strangeworks delivers immediate ROI while shaping a smarter, quantum-enabled future. To learn more, or to get started, visit
News18
6 days ago
- Science
- News18
Quantum Era: A New Technological Revolution
While we may not yet see quantum computers on every desk, their influence is already here, quietly transforming industries, research, and geopolitics We are told the quantum era is not so far off. The truth is the quantum era has already begun. So far, human history has witnessed several technological revolutions that have reshaped economies, societies, and the very way we think. We have witnessed various industrial revolutions, the age of electricity, the digital revolution, the ongoing AI era, and now, on the horizon, the quantum era. This emerging era promises to redefine what is computationally possible, bringing with it transformative advances in computing, communication, sensing, and beyond. Two of the most revolutionary technologies of the 21st century, as of now, are quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI). They are already reshaping research and industry on their own. But what happens when these two fields begin to merge? The answer could redefine what humanity can achieve, unlocking entirely new frontiers in science, medicine, finance, and beyond. Quantum technology could lead to breakthroughs in drug discovery, cryptography and cybersecurity, materials, climate modelling, pharmaceutical research, EV battery development, bin packing, cargo delivery, route optimisation, and image classification. Quantum AI systems help design new molecules or optimise complex systems. The era of quantum computing is the timeline in human history when quantum technologies—based on the principles of quantum mechanics—start moving from theoretical and experimental research into practical, real-world applications that affect business, science, security, healthcare, and daily life. Beyond economic competition, quantum technology has geopolitical significance. It could reshape cybersecurity, defence, and even the balance of scientific leadership between nations. Quantum computers may not replace classical computers or supercomputers soon. Instead, they will work alongside, solving problems once thought impossible and helping humanity tackle its grandest challenges—from curing diseases to fighting climate change. It's about entering an age when quantum technologies complement and transform what's possible, often by solving problems classical systems can't tackle efficiently. Globally, many countries are tremendously working on quantum technology at various levels. Recognising the transformative potential of quantum technologies, countries around the world have launched ambitious initiatives. India launched the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in 2023, with a budget of around Rs 6,000 crore. The mission has set specific goals: develop intermediate-scale quantum computers (50-1000 physical qubits). Creating quantum communication networks, including satellite-based secure links. Build skilled human capital through new research centres, academic programmes, and industry partnerships. Supporting quantum sensing technologies for space, defence, and healthcare. The Andhra Pradesh government has announced Quantum Valley in Amaravati as part of the national quantum mission, its first-ever initiative by any state government in India. The Government of India also focussed on academia for enhancing and strengthening quantum technology. India's approach to quantum computing is driven by many factors, like collaboration between premier institutes such as IITs, IISc Bengaluru, TIFR, and startups. These collaborations are strategic, like in communications of defence activities, and boosting scientific leadership. As the median age in India is 29 years, a young research ecosystem is starting to grow, and the government is encouraging research in this direction. As of now, India has more than 100 research groups and several startups in quantum software, hardware, and security. Along with the Government of India, premier institutions and research organisations, private companies such as QNu Labs, BosonQ Psi, Qulabs, Taqbit Labs, and others are also exploring quantum algorithms, quantum key distributions, quantum software for various applications, including aerospace and materials simulation, for secure communications, etc. China has made quantum technology a strategic national priority. It is investing billions of dollars in quantum labs, including the National Laboratory for Quantum Information Sciences in Hefei. It also built the world's first satellite-based quantum communication network (Micius satellite, launched in 2016), enabling quantum key distribution over thousands of kilometres. It has created large-scale terrestrial quantum communication networks linking major cities. The US has adopted a two-fold approach for quantum technology. One is with federal support, and another is with private leadership. The National Quantum Initiative Act (2018) provides coordinated funding (over $1.2 billion over five years). Strong private sector leadership in the US, such as IBM, Google, Microsoft, AWS, Intel, Rigetti, IonQ, PsiQuantum, and many startups, is extensively working towards quantum technology. IBM Quantum is building the first large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer by 2029. IBM has already deployed quantum computers on the cloud, working towards fault-tolerant systems. Google famously claimed 'quantum supremacy" in 2019. National labs and universities (Fermilab, MIT, Caltech) develop quantum networks and new algorithms. The path to a mature Quantum Era isn't guaranteed yet. Technical barriers such as qubit errors, decoherence, and scaling up reliable systems remain formidable. Building a skilled quantum workforce is another global challenge; quantum science combines physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering in ways that demand new educational approaches. The world it shapes will be more complex, more interconnected, and more full of possibility than ever before. And while we may not yet see quantum computers on every desk, their influence is already here, quietly transforming industries, research, and geopolitics. There are also ethical and societal questions. Who controls quantum technologies? How do we ensure equitable access and prevent misuse? Dr K Venkatakrishna Rao is an Assistant Professor in the department of computer science and engineering at NIT Warangal and also a Visiting Fellow, India Foundation, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Business Standard
17-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
QpiAI raises USD 32 million (INR 279 crore) in Series-A round led by Avataar Ventures and National Quantum Mission
VMPL New Delhi [India], July 17: Dr Nagendra Nagaraja CEO and Founder of QpiAI quoted "We thank our investors who enabled us to take QpiAI to next level. We were able to achieve great traction in commercialization of NISQ (Noisy Intermediate State Quantum) computers used for education, research and algorithmic prototyping. Markets are ripe for utility scale Quantum computers with logical qubits and we are leading efforts towards building full stack utility scale Quantum computers" * QpiAI raises $32 million (INR 279 cr) in Series A round led by Avataar Ventures and National Quantum mission of Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. Current investors and additional new investors also participated * QpiAI has developed a full-stack Quantum Computer with proprietary hardware and software, and has delivered real world Quantum applications in material science and drugs discovery to several global enterprises * QpiAI team is led by Dr. Nagendra (ex Nvidia, Qualcomm) and consists of over two dozen PhDs from top-tier Quantum research universities in the US and Europe; company has offices in India, Finland and the US The funds will be used to accelerate delivery of its utility scale Quantum computer and expand globally Mohan Kumar, Managing Partner at Avataar Ventures further added " We believe Quantum has the potential to advance mankind beyond imagination and India has a unique opportunity to lead this frontier tech. QpiAI has demonstrated a strong technical and commercial leadership with its functional Quantum Computing technology and real-world applications at large automotive and life sciences customers. They are on path to lead the Quantum-wave for the emerging markets with its advanced full-stack technology. We have been inspired by the vision, achievements and capabilities of the QpiAI team led by Dr. Nagendra and are excited to partner with them in their growth journey." Dr Ajai Chowdhry, Chairman of Indian National Quantum Mission further added " NQM is formed with a mission to enable Quantum ecosystem in India. We are early supporter of QpiAI and are proud of its achievements so far. We are delighted that NQM's support is helping QpiAI raise funds from global investors and promote the Indian startup ecosystem in Quantum technologies. QpiAI represents one of the successes of NQM. We plan to continue to support home grown product companies like QpiAI to help them grow into large enterprises and position India as a global leader in Quantum technologies. We congratulate Dr Nagendra and his team on this financing round and look forward to them achieving new commercial and technological milestones" About QpiAI QpiAI ( is a Bangalore based deep-tech company pioneering the convergence of Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing to solve some of the world's most complex industrial and scientific challenges. QpiAI's vertically integrated stack enables seamless innovation across hardware, software, and applications. The portfolio includes full-stack Quantum Computers (25 Qubit Indus and 8 Qubit QVidya); QpiAI-Explorer, an education platform; QpiAI-Quantum, offering SDKs, compilers, and simulators for quantum development; software products and platforms such as QpiAI-Opt, QpiAI-Pharma, QpiAI-Logistics, QpiAI-Matter, QpiAI- Pro and QpiAI-Agenthive across industries like manufacturing, industrial, transportation, finance, pharma and materials. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Deccan Herald
17-07-2025
- Business
- Deccan Herald
QpiAI raises USD 32 million (INR 279 crore) in Series-A round led by Avataar Ventures and National Quantum Mission
· QpiAI raises $32 million (INR 279 cr) in Series A round led by Avataar Ventures and National Quantum mission of Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. Current investors and additional new investors also participated· QpiAI has developed a full-stack Quantum Computer with proprietary hardware and software, and has delivered real world Quantum applications in material science and drugs discovery to several global enterprises· QpiAI team is led by Dr. Nagendra (ex Nvidia, Qualcomm) and consists of over two dozen PhDs from top-tier Quantum research universities in the US and Europe; company has offices in India, Finland and the US The funds will be used to accelerate delivery of its utility scale Quantum computer and expand globallyDr Nagendra Nagaraja CEO and Founder of QpiAI quoted 'We thank our investors who enabled us to take QpiAI to next level. We were able to achieve great traction in commercialization of NISQ (Noisy Intermediate State Quantum) computers used for education, research and algorithmic prototyping. Markets are ripe for utility scale Quantum computers with logical qubits and we are leading efforts towards building full stack utility scale Quantum computers'.Mohan Kumar, Managing Partner at Avataar Ventures further added ' We believe Quantum has the potential to advance mankind beyond imagination and India has a unique opportunity to lead this frontier tech. QpiAI has demonstrated a strong technical and commercial leadership with its functional Quantum Computing technology and real-world applications at large automotive and life sciences customers. They are on path to lead the Quantum-wave for the emerging markets with its advanced full-stack technology. We have been inspired by the vision, achievements and capabilities of the QpiAI team led by Dr. Nagendra and are excited to partner with them in their growth journey.' .Dr Ajai Chowdhry, Chairman of Indian National Quantum Mission further added ' NQM is formed with a mission to enable Quantum ecosystem in India. We are early supporter of QpiAI and are proud of its achievements so far. We are delighted that NQM's support is helping QpiAI raise funds from global investors and promote the Indian startup ecosystem in Quantum technologies. QpiAI represents one of the successes of NQM. We plan to continue to support home grown product companies like QpiAI to help them grow into large enterprises and position India as a global leader in Quantum technologies. We congratulate Dr Nagendra and his team on this financing round and look forward to them achieving new commercial and technological milestones'About QpiAIQpiAI ( is a Bangalore based deep-tech company pioneering the convergence of Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing to solve some of the world's most complex industrial and scientific challenges. QpiAI's vertically integrated stack enables seamless innovation across hardware, software, and applications. The portfolio includes full-stack Quantum Computers (25 Qubit Indus and 8 Qubit QVidya); QpiAI-Explorer, an education platform; QpiAI-Quantum, offering SDKs, compilers, and simulators for quantum development; software products and platforms such as QpiAI-Opt, QpiAI-Pharma, QpiAI-Logistics, QpiAI-Matter, QpiAI- Pro and QpiAI-Agenthive across industries like manufacturing, industrial, transportation, finance, pharma and materials.
