Science & tech ministry approves setting up of quantum teaching facilities at 23 institutions

NEW DELHI: Under the National Quantum Mission, the Union govt has given approval for establishing quantum teaching facilities or laboratories in 23 academic institutions across India, and 100 more are under consideration to support advanced research and training in emerging quantum technologies.

This was disclosed during a joint monthly meeting of secretaries of science ministries and departments led by science and technology, space and atomic energy minister Jitendra Singh. The meeting reviewed major scientific programmes, upcoming national events and efforts to strengthen coordination among different science ministries. The meeting was also attended by principal scientific adviser Ajay Kumar Sood.

The meeting also reviewed updates from the space sector, including preparations for the next PSLV mission expected later this year, along with upcoming satellite launches. Plans for launching the next navigation satellite for the Navy around May were discussed as part of India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen space-based navigation and strategic capabilities.

The meeting further discussed plans for the National Technology Day celebrations on May 11. A large technology exhibition is proposed to be organised in New Delhi from May 11 to 13, where national research organisations and startups supported by scientific ministries will demonstrate their innovations. The event is expected to bring together over 3,000 stakeholders and showcase more than 500 technologies and innovations across thematic sectors, providing a platform for industry engagement and technology commercialisation.

The meeting also discussed the revision of manpower guidelines for project staff engaged in scientific research programmes. The Department of Science and Technology is examining updates to the existing guidelines issued in 2020 so that they can be aligned with the norms notified under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) framework, ensuring greater uniformity across departments.

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