DRDO inaugurates Quantum Technology Research Centre to strengthen indigenous capabilities

New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) inaugurated the Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) at Metcalfe House, Delhi, on Tuesday. The facility has been formally inaugurated by Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R\&D and Chairman, DRDO. The establishment of QTRC marks a significant milestone in strengthening India’s indigenous quantum technology capabilities, particularly for strategic and defence applications.

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The QTRC is equipped with advanced experimental infrastructure designed to drive research and development in critical areas of quantum science. The facility houses capabilities for the characterisation of Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) and Distributed Feedback Lasers, test-beds for evaluating single-photon sources, and setups for the characterisation of micro-fabricated alkali vapor cells. It also includes experimental platforms dedicated to the development and validation of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) techniques, which are essential for enabling ultra-secure communication systems in the post-quantum era. The work on QKD is being led by the Scientific Analysis Group (SAG) of DRDO.

In addition to its focus on quantum communications, the centre is also advancing foundational quantum technologies. Spearheaded by DRDO’s Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), the QTRC is engaged in the development of ultra-small atomic clocks based on Coherent Population Trapping, designed to provide precise timekeeping in environments where Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) may be denied. The centre is also working on atomic magnetometers that use optically pumped magnetometry for ultra-sensitive detection of magnetic fields, along with research into advanced solid-state quantum devices and materials.

DRDO continues to play a leading role in India’s national quantum efforts, contributing to areas such as quantum sensing, secure communications, and post-quantum cryptography. As a key stakeholder in the National Quantum Mission, the organisation remains committed to fostering indigenous innovation and developing sovereign quantum technologies that will secure the nation's strategic future.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior officials and scientists from DRDO. Suma Varughese, Director General (Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems & Cyber Systems), whose leadership was instrumental in conceptualising the facility, graced the occasion. Also present were Dr Manu Korulla, Director General (Resource & Management), along with the Directors of SSPL and SAG, and other distinguished guests.

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