Amaravati, April 14 (NationPress) The inaugural launch of India’s pioneering quantum reference facilities took place here on Tuesday, signaling a significant advancement in the realm of quantum technology in celebration of World Quantum Day.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu formally launched the ‘1S Open Access Quantum Facility’ at SRM University, alongside the '1Q Quantum Facility' located at Medha Towers.

These two quantum testbeds are equipped with the essential infrastructure required for testing quantum computing devices and their components, as stated by officials.

With these two groundbreaking systems, Andhra Pradesh emerges as the first state in India to establish a dedicated Quantum Test Reference Facility. This development positions the Amaravati Quantum Valley to effectively test and certify quantum computer hardware.

The quantum computer testbeds, engineered to function at an ultra-low temperature of minus 273 degrees Celsius, have been set up at both sites.

These facilities are tailored to meet the needs of companies involved in quantum computing device manufacturing, as well as serving researchers, students, and industry professionals.

The Amaravati 1S facility at SRM University is aimed at fostering research, whereas the Amaravati 1Q facility at Medha Towers will focus on industrial applications.

The event was attended by representatives from the National Quantum Mission, the Department of Science and Technology (DST), along with delegates from various quantum technology firms, professors from IIT, and scientists.

On this momentous occasion, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu remarked that Andhra Pradesh has made history by achieving this landmark on World Quantum Day, coinciding with the centenary of Quantum Science.

“We have ushered in a transformative era of quantum history in Amaravati on the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar—the visionary who championed knowledge as the true marker of social progress,” he stated.

He expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for supporting the establishment of the Amaravati Quantum Valley, a critical initiative in launching India’s first open-access quantum facilities.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the 1S and 1Q quantum hardware testbeds inaugurated in Amaravati will be crucial in testing and certifying quantum devices.

“It is a source of immense pride that this Telugu region, already significant in the IT sector, is now emerging as a center for quantum technologies,” he noted.

CM Naidu asserted that just as electricity was essential for the industrial era and the Internet is vital for the digital age, quantum technology is imperative for contemporary innovation. The nations that excel in quantum technology are best positioned to influence the future, he stated.

He highlighted that the AQRF (Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility) will be an indispensable resource for Indian researchers aiming to test quantum hardware.

Noting that the quantum computing reference facilities were developed in just 8 months, he remarked that they significantly bolster the nation’s capabilities in quantum technology.

Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, commented that the establishment of Quantum Reference Test Facilities represents a crucial advancement towards achieving self-reliance in quantum technology.

He remarked that Amaravati is set to become a national hub for both AI and quantum technologies.

“Our focus should extend beyond quantum algorithms; we must also incorporate related fields such as atomic and cryogenic technologies. Given the shifting global landscape, it is vital that we enhance our technological capabilities,” he stated.

He concluded by stating that the reference facilities will be instrumental in the domestic manufacturing of quantum hardware, as locally produced equipment will be crucial for achieving self-sufficiency.