This call from the Department of Science & Technology (DST) under the National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to establish Undergraduate Teaching Laboratories in Quantum Technologies across India. The initiative seeks to enhance hands-on education and experiential learning for engineering undergraduates, fostering a quantum-ready workforce.

Background and Objectives

The DST is implementing the National Quantum Mission (NQM), which includes four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) focused on key research areas such as Quantum Computing, Communication, Sensing & Metrology, and Materials & Devices. These T-Hubs aim to drive technology development, human resource development, and entrepreneurship in quantum technologies.

To accelerate Human Resource Development, NQM, in collaboration with AICTE, has launched an Undergraduate Minor Course in Quantum Technologies. This course is being adopted by many AICTE-affiliated institutions.

The primary objectives of this initiative are to promote experiential learning in quantum technologies at the undergraduate level, build institutional capacity for hands-on quantum education, and support the implementation of the UG Minor Course with physical infrastructure. It also aims to nurture early-stage interest and skills in quantum computing, communication, and sensing.

Eligibility Criteria

There are two categories of eligible institutions. The first category includes AICTE-affiliated institutions that have submitted their expression of interest to AICTE for adopting the B.Tech Minor Curriculum in Quantum Technologies. The second category includes All Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (IITs, NITs, IISERs, IIITs, Central Universities etc.).

For both categories, institutions must demonstrate faculty commitment and preparedness to launch the B.Tech Minor program in Quantum Technologies, along with the capability to maintain and operate the associated laboratory. A dedicated teaching lab space of minimum 2000 sq. ft. is required.

Each laboratory must have a minimum of two faculty members with relevant expertise in quantum technologies, each dedicating at least one-third of their time to laboratory activities. Additionally, there should be one full-time dedicated personnel/technician with appropriate experience and qualifications.

Funding Support and Duration

The level of funding support varies based on the type of institution. Government Organizations and Government-Aided Colleges will receive 100% support from DST. Self-financed Private Institutions/Universities will receive 75% support from NQM, DST, with the remaining 25% to be covered by the Grantee Institution.

Selection will be through a peer review mechanism and potentially a visit to the laboratories. No additional maintenance support will be provided, and institutions should negotiate for extended warranty of equipment up to March 2031.

The duration of support is until the National Quantum Mission period, i.e., March 2031. Support to self-financed private institutions will be considered, provided they comply with the cost-sharing arrangement and statutory requirements.

Lab Operationalization and Technology Domains

Funds are routed via Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) under NQM, and reporting mechanisms and oversight responsibilities will be defined by the respective T-Hub. Labs must also adhere to the T-Hub’s technical roadmap, timelines, and deliverables for the Human Resource Development component.

The host institution shall report progress, outcomes, and fund utilization to the T-Hub, which will retain supervisory and quality assurance authority. The Teaching Labs proposed to be setup must holistically cover the 4 verticals under NQM.

These verticals include: Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices. The labs should provide practical training to support the theoretical modules of the UG Minor Program.

Proposal Submission and Evaluation

Proposals must be submitted online only through the designated NQM portal. Hard copy submissions will not be entertained. All proposals must be submitted by the specified deadline.

Proposals must be submitted in the prescribed format. All proposals will undergo peer-review by committees of domain experts constituted by DST. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an online/offline presentation.

Final selection will be based on faculty readiness, availability of qualified support staff, financial and institutional commitment, and alignment with the UG Minor course developed by NQM and AICTE.