CFAs: Setting up Undergraduate Teaching Laboratories in Quantum Technologies (India)
About Organisation
The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a Government of India initiative led by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to advance quantum science and technology in the country. Launched in collaboration with the All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), the mission aims to position India as a global leader in the quantum domain by building robust infrastructure and human capital. In December 2024, NQM and AICTE introduced the Undergraduate Minor Course in Quantum Technologies, marking a significant step towards integrating quantum education into mainstream technical training.
This initiative is designed to promote hands-on learning in quantum computing, communication, and sensing technologies. To facilitate this, dedicated teaching labs are being developed across India’s academic institutions. These labs not only enhance practical learning but also serve as collaboration and innovation hubs for regional educational institutions. The Mission’s four Technology Hubs (T-Hubs) serve as anchors for capacity-building, training, and implementation support across various levels of expertise—from undergraduate students to post-doctoral researchers. Through this mission, India is fostering a future-ready workforce equipped with critical skills in cutting-edge quantum technologies, contributing to national scientific advancement and global competitiveness.
About the Grant
This grant supports the implementation of the B.Tech Minor in Quantum Technologies across recognized academic institutions in India. Launched under the National Quantum Mission (NQM), this initiative is designed to equip undergraduate students with foundational and practical knowledge in quantum technologies. The funding enables the development of dedicated teaching labs to complement theoretical coursework and provide immersive experiential learning. These labs will also act as local networking hubs for nearby institutions to collectively build a quantum-ready ecosystem.
The grant covers infrastructure development, training support, and lab setup aligned with the mission’s curriculum. Government and government-aided institutions will receive 100% financial support from the Department of Science and Technology (DST). In contrast, private or self-financed institutions recognized by AICTE/UGC will receive 75% funding, with the remaining 25% to be contributed by the applying institution. The grant period extends through the life of the NQM, ending in March 2031.
Selection is based on faculty readiness, infrastructure availability, institutional commitment, and peer review by expert committees. Priority will be given to institutions with strong academic credentials, a track record of implementation capability, and the ability to launch the course once internal approvals are obtained.
Who can Apply?
This grant is open to government-funded or AICTE/UGC-recognized institutions in India with a demonstrated readiness to implement the B.Tech Minor in Quantum Technologies. Eligible institutions must meet at least one of the following quality benchmarks:
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Inclusion in the 8th Edition of NIRF rankings (June 2023)
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Featured in QS Asia Rankings (November 2023)
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Holding NBA accreditation
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Possessing a NAAC score of 3.01 or higher
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Having autonomous status
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Consistently achieving 80% student admissions over the past five years
To qualify, institutions must also demonstrate technical and academic readiness, including having at least two faculty members with expertise in quantum technologies, a full-time lab technician, and a minimum 2000 sq. ft. of dedicated lab space. Prior experience in running related programs and readiness to start the course upon approval are essential.
Additionally, institutions must submit internal approvals and a formal written commitment to launch the course in alignment with NQM-AICTE guidelines. Preference will be given to proposals that show strong implementation plans, financial clarity, and infrastructure preparedness.
How to Apply?
Interested institutions must prepare a detailed proposal demonstrating their eligibility, readiness, and commitment to implementing the UG Minor in Quantum Technologies. Applications will undergo peer review, and shortlisted institutions may be invited for presentations. Ensure all necessary internal approvals, infrastructure details, and faculty profiles are included. Proposals must clearly outline how the institution plans to sustain the initiative until March 2031.
Application Deadline
All proposals must be submitted no later than 24th August 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Institutions are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.
Last Date To Apply
The final date to submit applications for the NQM-AICTE Quantum Technologies Grant is 24 August 2025. All applications must be complete and submitted within the stipulated timeline.
Grant Amount
Government institutions will receive 100% funding. AICTE/UGC-recognized institutions will receive 75% support, with 25% institutional contribution required. Funding covers infrastructure, lab development, and faculty training until March 2031.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
