Frontier technology has the potential to realise India’s 8 per cent growth, Niti Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam said on Wednesday after releasing a report on “Quantum computing: National Security Implications & Strategic Preparedness.”
Subrahmanyam told journalists that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid down an ambitious target for Vikshit Bharat at 1947. Though its not an easy target, frontier technology can get that breakthrough for the country to become developed and make difference to lives of people, he remarked.
The governments worldwide are making substantial commitments to quantum development. The US has invested $ 5 billion till date, while China leads with $15 billion followed by Europe at $ 1.2 billion and India at $ 0.75 billion. More than 30 governments have pledged $40 billion to advance quantum technologies, besides private investments are also surging reflecting growing commercial confidence and accelerating the transition from research to real-world applications, the report on quantum computing pointed out.
The frontier technology includes advanced robotics, 3D printing, artificial intelligence, big data analytics, quantum computing, cloud computing and the Internet of things (IoT).
On why India’s contribution is low for harnessing next generation technology, the Niti Aayog CEO replied “its not necessary that you throw money. Quantum of impact is more important than quantum of money.”
The report, however, stated that quantum sector witnessed approximately 50 investment deals worth ₹1.5 billion in 2024 — which is double the previous year’s amount. It also stated that the union government has ramped up financial support for quantum startups, and this momentum is expected to intensify in 2025.
When asked have timelines been set for achieving objectives of the Niti Frontier Tech Hub, Subrahmanyam stated that the advancements will happen in cycles and the first score is supposed to take place in three months from now.
Debjani Ghosh, Distinguished Fellow and Chief Architect of Niti Frontier Tech Hub, gave a presentation on the initiative and said the technology is becoming real much faster than we think.
Frontier Tech Nation
Quantum computing will redefine AI, cryptography and national security. “Our mission is to position India as a Frontier Tech Nation. We will actively engage with experts to build deep insights and accelerate India’s readiness in emerging technologies — fostering innovation, driving adoption and ensuring economic and societal progress.”
Vinayak Godse, CEO of Data Security Council of India (DSCI), in his presentation emphasised over the fact that the quantum computing technology ecosystem is now industrial in nature and supply chain is building formidably.
Godse said quantum technologies will have implications on the national security especially on cryptography and cybersecurity, intelligence gathering, military applications, economic warfare and geopolitics.
DSCI is the knowledge partner in Niti Frontier Tech Hub and has also contributed in bringing out quantum computing report.