The Department of Science & Technology (DST), Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India, announces a call for proposals under the National Quantum Mission (NQM) to foster innovation in Quantum Algorithms. This initiative aims to enhance the Quantum Computing T-Hub by integrating project teams focused on advancing Quantum Algorithms.

Focus Areas

This call invites collaborative proposals from Academic institutions and R&D Labs to focus on specific technology outcomes within Quantum Algorithms. Proposals should aim to deliver tangible results in one of the following areas:

• Quantum Transpilers, Simulators and Performance Tools

• Quantum Information and Complexity Theory

• Quantum Optimization Algorithms

• AI/ML Integration with Quantum Technologies

• Quantum Simulations

• Hybrid Quantum-High Performance Computing (HPC) Systems

• Any other relevant areas

Each proposal should focus on technology development in only one area. Institutes interested in proposing technology development in more than one area must submit a separate proposal for each area.

Eligibility and Collaboration

Proposals are invited from Academic Institutions and R&D Labs, encouraging collaboration with industry partners. Each team must include at least one industry or user agency collaborator willing to commercialize the final technology package. The roles and responsibilities of the collaborating industry/user agency must be clearly outlined in the proposal.

The Proposing Team will be led by a Principal Investigator (PI), with other members acting as Associate Principal Investigators (APIs). The PI will serve as the main point of contact and submit the detailed proposal on behalf of the entire team. The PI's institution will be considered the Lead Institution, while API institutions will be considered member institutions.

Eligibility Criteria for Team Members:

• Hold regular positions with relevant academic credentials and research expertise.

• Have a strong record of research publications, patents, or prototype demonstrations.

• Demonstrate collaborations with industries or startups.

• Be affiliated with reputed research and academic institutions.

Proposal Submission

Proposals must be submitted online through https://onlinedst.gov.in by the Head of the Institution. The proposal should outline the roles and responsibilities of the PI and APIs. It must also clearly define the Technology Development activities to be undertaken, including measurable milestones and timelines.

The proposal should be consistent with the scope of work, time duration, and proposed budget. Each PI and API must provide an endorsement and commitment using the provided templates. The institutes of all PIs and APIs must provide support in the form of infrastructure and commit to freeing up a significant portion of their time for the proposed work.

The submission deadline is July 11th, 2025. No submissions will be accepted after this date. The proposal format can be downloaded from https://onlinedst.gov.in/Projectproposalformat.aspx.

Required Documents

All documents provided in Annexure II as Templates 1 to 7 must be appropriately submitted by PI/APIs/consortium Members. These templates include:

• Template 1: Profile of PI.

• Template 2: Profiles of APIs.

• Template 3: Endorsement of PI institute.

• Template 4: Endorsement of API institutes.

• Template 5: Consent letter from PI.

• Template 6: Consent letter from APIs.

• Template 7: Demonstration of Prototypes / Proof of Concept by PI/APIs.

Ensure all documents are submitted in PDF format.

Evaluation Process

Shortlisted proposals may be invited for presentation and discussion sessions. The DST may suggest restructuring proposals and reorganizing team members based on merit and technology requirements. Revised detailed project proposals may be requested accordingly.

The selected groups will play a pivotal role in advancing and demonstrating developments and innovations in Quantum Algorithms. The implementation strategy involves a dynamic model that fosters collaborative synergy among Academic Institutions/ R&D Labs, with a provision for the involvement of startups/industry.

An institution can submit only one proposal in each of the identified areas mentioned in section 2.