Welcome to today’s blog, where we delve into a monumental achievement in India’s technological landscape—the launch of its first full-stack quantum computer, QpiAI-Indus.
On April 14, 2025, coinciding with World Quantum Day, Bengaluru-based startup QpiAI unveiled QpiAI-Indus, marking a significant milestone in India’s journey into quantum computing. This development positions India among a select group of nations that have successfully developed indigenous quantum computing systems.
Understanding QpiAI-Indus
QpiAI-Indus is a 25-qubit superconducting quantum computer that integrates the entire quantum computing stack—from hardware to software—developed entirely within India. This includes:
- Quantum Hardware: Utilizing superconducting qubits, which operate at near absolute zero temperatures to maintain quantum coherence.
- Control Systems: Advanced cryogenic control environments to manage qubit operations.
- Software Stack: Proprietary software tools like QpiAISaaS and QpiAI-Opt, facilitating hybrid quantum-classical workflows.
- Cloud Accessibility: Enabling researchers and developers to access the quantum system remotely for various applications.
Technical Specifications
The QpiAI-Indus system boasts impressive technical features:
- Single-Qubit Gate Fidelity: 99.7%
- Two-Qubit Gate Fidelity: 96%
- Coherence Times: T1 and T2 times of approximately 30 and 25 microseconds, respectively.
These metrics indicate a robust and reliable quantum system capable of performing complex computations with high accuracy.
Integration with AI and HPC
A standout feature of QpiAI-Indus is its integration with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and High-Performance Computing (HPC). This hybrid approach allows for:
- Enhanced Optimization: AI-driven algorithms assist in optimizing quantum computations.
- Scalability: The system is designed to scale up to 128 qubits, with future plans aiming for 1000 qubits, facilitating more complex problem-solving capabilities.
- Versatility: Applicable across various sectors, including drug discovery, materials science, logistics, and climate modeling.
Applications Across Industries
The advent of QpiAI-Indus opens new horizons across multiple industries:
- Healthcare: Accelerating drug discovery by simulating molecular interactions at a quantum level.
- Materials Science: Designing new materials with desired properties through quantum simulations.
- Logistics: Optimizing supply chain and routing problems using quantum algorithms.
- Climate Science: Modeling complex climate systems to better understand and predict environmental changes.
Alignment with the National Quantum Mission (NQM)
QpiAI-Indus is a flagship project under India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM), launched in 2023 with a budget of ₹6,003.65 crore (~$730 million). The mission aims to:
- Develop Quantum Technologies: Focusing on computing, communication, sensing, and materials.
- Foster Research and Development: Encouraging innovation through public-private partnerships.
- Build a Quantum Workforce: Training professionals to meet the demands of emerging quantum industries.
QpiAI is one of eight startups selected under the NQM, highlighting the government’s commitment to nurturing domestic quantum capabilities.
Global Context and India’s Position
Globally, quantum computing is a rapidly advancing field, with countries like the United States, China, and Germany making significant strides. India’s entry into this domain with QpiAI-Indus signifies:
- Technological Sovereignty: Reducing reliance on foreign technologies by developing indigenous solutions.
- Economic Growth: Opening avenues for new industries and job creation in the quantum sector.
- Scientific Advancement: Contributing to global research and innovation in quantum technologies.
Future Roadmap
QpiAI has outlined an ambitious roadmap for the future:
- Scaling Qubit Count: Plans to develop systems with 64 qubits (codenamed Kaveri), 128 qubits (Ganges), and eventually 1000 qubits (Everest).
- Enhancing Software Capabilities: Developing more sophisticated algorithms and tools to leverage the full potential of quantum computing.
- Expanding Access: Making quantum computing more accessible to academia, industry, and government sectors through cloud-based platforms.
Conclusion
The launch of QpiAI-Indus marks a significant leap forward for India in the realm of quantum computing. By developing a full-stack, indigenous quantum system, India is not only asserting its position on the global stage but also laying the foundation for future innovations that could transform various sectors of the economy.
As we continue to witness rapid advancements in quantum technologies, the success of QpiAI-Indus serves as an inspiration and a testament to the potential that lies within India’s scientific and technological communities.
Thank you for joining us in exploring this groundbreaking development. Stay tuned for more insights into how quantum computing is shaping our world.