What is the purpose of introducing undergraduate courses in quantum technologies in India?

The primary goal of these new courses is to prepare India’s youth for the fast-growing field of quantum technologies. In partnership with AICTE and the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the initiative supports the National Quantum Mission (NQM), which aims to create a skilled workforce in areas like quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials. This programme positions India to become a global leader in quantum innovation.

Who is eligible to enroll in these quantum technology courses?

The courses are open to students from AICTE-approved institutions who are currently in their 3rd or 4th semester of engineering. Importantly, these courses are designed to be inclusive of all engineering branches, allowing students from various technical backgrounds to participate and gain exposure to quantum technologies.

What does the course structure look like?

Each course consists of a combination of theoretical lectures and practical lab sessions, ensuring students gain both conceptual clarity and hands-on experience. The programme offers a total of 18 academic credits, and students will be taught topics such as quantum computing, quantum metrology, and quantum communication through specially designed classroom and lab modules.

What steps are being taken to support teaching and infrastructure?

To deliver high-quality education, selected institutions will be equipped with dedicated quantum technology labs, and Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) will be conducted to train teachers. The DST Secretary, Professor Abhay Karandikar, highlighted the importance of infrastructure and skilled faculty, while Dr. Ajai Chowdhry suggested adding internships to ensure real-world exposure to quantum tech applications.

Why is quantum technology education important for India’s future?

Quantum technologies are poised to revolutionise sectors like healthcare, defence, and communication. By launching these undergraduate courses, India is investing in human capital that will be capable of leading in this next-generation technological domain. This initiative not only supports self-reliance but also strengthens India’s position in the global race for quantum innovation and economic transformation.

What is the purpose of introducing undergraduate courses in quantum technologies in India?

The primary goal of these new courses is to prepare India’s youth for the fast-growing field of quantum technologies. In partnership with AICTE and the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the initiative supports the National Quantum Mission (NQM), which aims to create a skilled workforce in areas like quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials. This programme positions India to become a global leader in quantum innovation.

Who is eligible to enroll in these quantum technology courses?

The courses are open to students from AICTE-approved institutions who are currently in their 3rd or 4th semester of engineering. Importantly, these courses are designed to be inclusive of all engineering branches, allowing students from various technical backgrounds to participate and gain exposure to quantum technologies.

What does the course structure look like?

Each course consists of a combination of theoretical lectures and practical lab sessions, ensuring students gain both conceptual clarity and hands-on experience. The programme offers a total of 18 academic credits, and students will be taught topics such as quantum computing, quantum metrology, and quantum communication through specially designed classroom and lab modules.

What steps are being taken to support teaching and infrastructure?

To deliver high-quality education, selected institutions will be equipped with dedicated quantum technology labs, and Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) will be conducted to train teachers. The DST Secretary, Professor Abhay Karandikar, highlighted the importance of infrastructure and skilled faculty, while Dr. Ajai Chowdhry suggested adding internships to ensure real-world exposure to quantum tech applications.

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DST And AICTE Launch Undergraduate Quantum Technology Courses To Build A Skilled Workforce

Alankar Mishra

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Updated: 28-01-2025 at 7:36 AM

DST And AICTE Launch Undergraduate Quantum Technology Courses To Build A Skilled Workforce

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India is taking a giant leap towards assuming the position of dominance in quantum technologies. In conjunction with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has rolled out undergraduate courses in quantum technologies. These courses are in fellowship with National Quantum Mission (NQM) which intends to equip human resources that will be active in that advanced area.

What Is The Programme About?

Students will now be able to grasp theoretical fundamentals as well as be engaged with practice in quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing, quantum metrology, and quantum materials among others. This gives students both the fundamental concepts but also the more practical sides of quantum technologies.

Ajay K. Sood, who is the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, stated that these courses will aid students in getting ready for the upcoming quantum category. For instance, on these national efforts, he made it clear how relevant they are to the National Quantum Mission which is concerned about making India a powerhouse of advanced technologies.

Course Details

The courses have been aimed at providing engineering students with an in-depth theoretical as well as practical. Students undergo classroom teaching with accompanying laboratory work. Details about the courses are given below:

Eligibility: The courses can be taken by students enrolled in AICTE-approved institutions from 3rd or 4th Semester.
Structure: Each of the proposed courses consists of lectures and lab work such that the total number of credits awarded is 18.
Access: The program can be taken up by students of any engineering background, which enhances its reach.

Supporting Faculty and Infrastructure

Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of DST, said that faculty training and strong infrastructure are essential for the success of this government program. Dedicated teaching labs will be set up in selected institutions, and Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) will train teachers to provide quality education in quantum technologies.

To ensure practical exposure, Dr. Ajai Chowdhry, Chairman of MGB, NQM, suggested including internships as part of the course. This will help students understand how quantum technologies are applied in real-world scenarios.

Rollout And Implementation

Professor T.G. Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE, called this government initiative a new chapter in India’s journey towards a quantum revolution. The curriculum is expected to be available in leading institutions by July 2025, allowing many students to benefit from it.

What is the National Quantum Mission?

The National Quantum Mission is a government initiative to promote quantum research, innovation, and education in India. It aims to develop a skilled workforce, build teaching labs, create textbooks, and organise awareness programmes to spark interest in quantum technologies.

Why is This Important?

Quantum technology is expected to transform industries like healthcare, defence, and communication. By introducing these courses, India is ensuring that it has a trained workforce ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities of this emerging field.

This government programme is a crucial step towards making India self-reliant in quantum technologies. It will not only boost India’s position as a global leader in this area but also provide students with the skills they need for future opportunities in advanced technologies.

Conclusion

With the introduction of undergraduate quantum technology courses, India is preparing its young minds to lead in the field of quantum innovation. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to building a robust ecosystem for research, education, and technological progress. By equipping students with the right skills, the programme ensures India is ready for the future of quantum technology.

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