Kanpur, 22 March 2025: The Mission Coordination Cell of the National Quantum Mission (NQM) at IIT Kanpur is hosting Quantum Quest 2025, a premier event dedicated to advancing quantum technologies and strengthening collaborations among academia, industry, and policymakers. The two-day event, being held at IIT Kanpur from March 22–23, 2025, marks a significant step in India's commitment to quantum research and innovation.

Quantum Quest, the flagship awareness and knowledge-sharing initiative of NQM, brought together leading scientists, researchers, industry professionals, start-ups, and government representatives to strengthen India's indigenous quantum capabilities, aligning with the objectives of the NQM.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, President of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), as the Chief Guest; Dr. JBV Reddy, Head of the Quantum Technology Cell, DST, as the Guest of Honor; and Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur. The event also featured the launch of the National Quantum Mission newsletter, Quantum प्रबोधनम्, which will serve as a key resource for sharing breakthroughs, policy updates, and collaborative opportunities in quantum research.

Delivering the inaugural keynote, Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, President of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) emphasized the role of awareness initiatives for quantum technologies in India: "Quantum Quest is a vital initiative that brings quantum awareness to the grassroots. Across metros, tier 2 and tier 3 cities, India’s youth are brimming with creativity — generating products, building unicorns and filing patents. If India aims to become a developed nation, every young mind must be encouraged and enabled to turn ideas into products. To truly harness this potential, such awareness initiatives must happen regularly, nurturing sustained engagement and innovation across our universities”

Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, welcomed the delegates and participants, stating, “Quantum Quest is more than just an event—it marks the start of a collaborative journey toward a quantum-powered future for India. With Quantum Technology evolving rapidly over the past decade, its research and breakthroughs are truly sensational, making awareness creation an urgent priority. Through this initiative, we seek to spark curiosity, encourage knowledge-sharing, and inspire the next generation to drive India’s quantum revolution.”

Following the inaugural session, Quantum Quest 2025 featured keynote addresses, expert discussions, and interactive sessions with quantum startups. Researchers and students showcased advancements in quantum computing for AI, advanced quantum materials, 2D materials for photodetectors, and quantum cryptography for digital security.

The event gave quantum startups such as QNu Labs, QpiAi, Fortytwo Labs, and PrenishQ, an opportunity to demonstrate real-world applications in quantum encryption, post-quantum cryptography, and high-precision lasers. Industry leaders from IBM, TCS, and ISRO joined academia to discuss India's quantum roadmap, addressing challenges in adoption, talent development, and policy support.

The second day of Quantum Quest 2025, set for March 23, will include sessions on Unlocking the Quantum Realm in Communication, Security of Practical Quantum Key Distribution Systems: Real Implementation Challenges, Seamless Shift: Smooth Transition to PQC with Platform Approach, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, Cesium Fountain – The Primary Quantum Frequency Standard, Design and Development of Quantum Entanglement-Enhanced Imaging Systems, Narrow Linewidth Diode Lasers for the Quantum World, and Field Deployable Quantum Sensors. The event will conclude with an award ceremony and valedictory session.

About IIT Kanpur:

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, holds the distinction of being recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has made significant contributions to research and development over the decades. Its expansive, lush green campus spans 1,050 acres and hosts a rich array of academic and research resources. The institute comprises 19 departments, 26 centers, three interdisciplinary programs, and two specialized schools across engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines. With over 590 full-time faculty members and more than 9,500 students, IIT Kanpur continues to be a leader in fostering innovation and academic rigor.

For more information, visit www.iitk.ac.in.