India Achieves 1,000-km Quantum Communication Network

India's India===National Quantum Mission has successfully demonstrated a 1,000-km quantum communication network, one of the longest globally, in under three years since its launch. This milestone, achieved using indigenous technology developed by QNu Labs, significantly surpasses early expectations for the mission's target of 2,000 km over eight years. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced this progress during a review of the India===Department of Science and Technology. The technology is designed for secure communication across challenging terrains, including underwater and underground networks, with applications in defense, financial systems, and critical infrastructure. In parallel, the government has expanded support to nine additional startups, bringing the total to 17, to accelerate indigenous capabilities in quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials. The government also launched a Rs 1 lakh crore Research Development Innovation (RDI) Fund, with the India===Technology Development Board and India===Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council receiving numerous proposals, indicating growing industry interest in R&D.