India’s First UG Minor Programme in Quantum Technologies Launched by AICTE and NQM
In a pioneering initiative, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), in collaboration with the National Quantum Mission (NQM) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has launched an Undergraduate (UG) minor programme in Quantum Technologies. This programme aims to prepare India’s workforce for the quantum revolution, positioning the nation as a global leader in cutting-edge quantum innovation.
The programme, which is set to begin in the upcoming academic session, will be open to engineering students from the third or fourth semester. It will focus on practical, hands-on applications to equip students with real-world quantum skills. Students can choose from a pool of over 30 credits, allowing them to select 18 credits, giving institutions the flexibility to tailor the programme according to their resources and needs.
AICTE and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) will conduct Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) to support teachers in delivering high-quality quantum education. Quantum Technologies harness the principles of quantum mechanics, the fundamental science that governs the behavior of matter at atomic and subatomic levels.
Bridging Academia and Industry Needs
The new minor programme is designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry, addressing the strategic and multidisciplinary needs of the rapidly evolving quantum ecosystem. The curriculum focuses on four critical areas of quantum technologies: quantum computation and simulation, quantum communication and cryptography, quantum sensing, and quantum materials and devices. To pursue the programme, students will need a solid foundation in engineering, mathematics, physics, and basic programming skills.
According to AICTE, the programme aims to offer students both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to thrive in the quantum technology sector. As part of this initiative, AICTE and the DST will support institutions in establishing quantum technology laboratories to foster hands-on learning and experimentation.
Empowering the Future of Quantum Science
DST Secretary Abhay Karandikar highlighted the launch of this UG minor programme as a “major boost towards capacity building in quantum science and technology.” He expressed optimism about the programme’s potential to advance India’s scientific and technological capabilities in the quantum field, stating, “Together with AICTE, we aim to launch the programme in the next academic session.”
The National Quantum Mission, which was approved by the Union Cabinet on April 19 last year with a budget of ₹6003.65 crore for the period 2023-24 to 2030-31, is designed to advance scientific and industrial research in quantum technologies. The mission seeks to foster a robust quantum technology ecosystem, positioning India as a leader in Quantum Technologies and Applications (QTA). The NQM aims to have applications across sectors such as communication, healthcare, finance, and energy, with potential impacts in areas like drug design, space exploration, banking, and security.
Shaping the Future of Innovation
AICTE Chairman TG Sitharam emphasized that quantum technology is set to redefine computing, communication, and sensing. He stated, “Through this curriculum, we aim to nurture a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and fulfilling the goals of the National Quantum Mission.” He also highlighted AICTE’s initiatives, including mandatory internships and Idea Development Evaluation and Application (IDEA) labs, which will complement this curriculum and help create a quantum-ready talent pool.
Ajai Chowdhry, the Chairman of the Mission Governing Body (MGB) of NQM, noted that India’s first undergraduate programme in quantum technologies will not only cultivate skilled talent but also promote collaboration with startups and provide students with practical experience. This hands-on approach will equip students with the tools needed to drive innovation in the quantum field and position India as a global leader in this transformative technology.
This programme is a significant step toward fostering a skilled workforce for the rapidly growing quantum industry and positioning India at the forefront of the global quantum revolution.
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