Amaravati to Host India’s First Quantum Valley

Amaravati, the upcoming capital of Andhra Pradesh, is set to host India’s first Quantum Valley, anchored by a proposed full-scale quantum computing facility from IBM. The initiative aligns with India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM) and marks a major step in building next-generation computing infrastructure within the country.

IBM Quantum System Two in India

Under discussions at an advanced stage between IBM and the Andhra Pradesh government, the Quantum Valley Tech Park in Amaravati is expected to house an IBM Quantum System Two. The installation would be powered by IBM’s most advanced superconducting quantum processor and represent the most powerful quantum computer deployed on Indian soil.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has joined the initiative to develop quantum algorithms, applications and workforce skills. The facility aims to support industry, academia and government research, positioning Amaravati as the nucleus of a national quantum ecosystem.

How Quantum Computers Differ

Unlike classical computers that use binary bits (0 or 1), quantum computers operate using qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously due to superposition and entanglement. This enables them to solve certain complex problems far more efficiently than traditional supercomputers.

Potential applications include drug discovery, battery chemistry simulations, materials science, climate modelling and optimisation of logistics. The quantum processor operates inside a dilution refrigerator at temperatures close to absolute zero, ensuring superconductivity and minimal noise interference.

National Quantum Mission Framework

India’s quantum push is driven by the National Quantum Mission, approved in April 2023 with an outlay of Rs 6,003 crore for the period 2023–24 to 2030–31. The mission seeks to advance quantum computing, secure communications, sensing and materials research.

The government has established thematic hubs and aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50–1,000 qubits. The Amaravati Quantum Valley is expected to complement these efforts by translating research into industrial capability and employment generation.

Important Facts for Exams

• National Quantum Mission was approved in 2023 with Rs 6,003 crore allocation.
• Qubits use superposition and entanglement, unlike classical binary bits.
• Quantum processors operate near absolute zero temperatures.
• Post-quantum cryptography is being developed to counter future quantum threats.

Strategic and Security Implications

Quantum computing also has implications for digital security. Current encryption systems such as RSA rely on mathematical problems difficult for classical computers but potentially vulnerable to advanced quantum machines. While present systems cannot break modern encryption, research into post-quantum cryptography is underway globally.

By anchoring Quantum Valley in Amaravati, India aims to retain intellectual property, build domestic capability and secure its position among leading quantum technology nations.