India Launches IITM–C-DOT Quantum Communication Hub to Advance Secure Networks

IIT Madras Launches National Quantum Communication Hub to Boost India’s Secure Tech Capabilities

IIT Madras has inaugurated the IITM C-DOT Samgnya Technologies Foundation , a landmark initiative that positions India at the forefront of global quantum communication research. Established at the IIT Madras Research Park, the new centre will spearhead national efforts to build ultra-secure communication systems and accelerate quantum technology development.

A Strategic Foundation Under the National Quantum Mission

Designed as India’s National Hub for Quantum Communication , the foundation is jointly led by IIT Madras and the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT). Senior leadership from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) underscored its importance in strengthening India’s technological sovereignty and bolstering national security frameworks. The hub will coordinate research across academia, industry, start-ups, and international partners to push the boundaries of quantum innovation.

Core Focus: Building Next-Gen Secure Communication Systems

Work at the hub will centre on cutting-edge domains including Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) , Quantum Cryptography , Post-Quantum Security , Quantum Memory , Quantum Repeaters , and Satellite-enabled quantum communication . The mission aims to deliver deployable technologies within five years, enabling India to construct tamper-proof networks for defence, governance, and critical infrastructure.

Strengthening the National Quantum Mission Ecosystem

The foundation is one of four national hubs under the National Quantum Mission , and among the most generously funded. DST officials highlighted that both the Quantum Communication and Quantum Sensing hubs are expected to yield transformative outcomes. Liberal funding has already supported multiple start-ups working on advanced cyber-physical and quantum technologies.

Exam Oriented Facts

• IITM C-DOT Samgnya Foundation is India’s National Quantum Communication Hub .

• Key research areas: QKD, quantum cryptography, quantum memory, repeaters, satellite quantum links .

• Operates under the National Quantum Mission with DST backing.

• Located at IIT Madras Research Park , enabling strong industry–academia collaboration.

Future Outlook: Integrating Expertise for Quantum Innovation

IIT Madras emphasised building a unified ecosystem where quantum hardware experts, communication engineers, and theoretical scientists collaborate seamlessly. With expanding industrial partnerships and rising student interest, the hub is expected to position India as a global leader in quantum-secure communication technologies .