SRM University-AP, state ink pact to establish quantum reference facility

Amaravati: SRM University-AP and the Andhra Pradesh government have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a quantum reference facility under the Amaravati Quantum Valley project. The facility will be the first of its kind in India and the fourth globally.The MoU was signed by the vice chancellor of SRM University–AP Prof Ch Satish Kumar, and senior university officials in the presence of chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu and IT minister Nara Lokesh.
The proposed facility will serve as a shared platform for startups, researchers and industry partners to test, validate and benchmark quantum computing components before large-scale deployment. Officials said the initiative would help reduce entry barriers and speed up the commercialisation of quantum technologies.SRM AP will also establish a quantum institute to promote interdisciplinary research and training in quantum sciences, involving faculty from physics, computer science, electronics and engineering. The university plans to offer specialised programmes, hands-on labs, industry-linked projects and start-up incubation support.Prof Kumar said the project would strengthen India's quantum ecosystem and help position Andhra Pradesh as a global hub for advanced technology innovation.