Context:

Recently, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) introduced a new undergraduate curriculum to develop a strong quantum-trained ecosystem in India, under the National Quantum Mission.

About the Programme:

• The core of the programme is to deepen graduates' understanding of quantum technologies through a minor program in the subject at the undergraduate level (from 3rd or 4th semester).
• The curriculum will help impart training for developing the workforce to enable them to reach global standards and simultaneously address the multi-disciplinary needs of quantum technology development, from basic to applied research.
• It is designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry by addressing the strategic and multidisciplinary needs of the quantum ecosystem. 
• The course structure includes all four verticals of Quantum Technology.
• This curriculum will mark a significant step in building a quantum-ready workforce.
• Faculty Development Programs in the areas of Quantum Technologies are also proposed to be carried out to enable them to do justice to the goals of the minor program. 

National Quantum Mission (NQM):

The Union Cabinet approved the NQM in April 2023 from 2023-24 to 2030-31 under the Department of Science & Technology.

It aims to seed, nurture and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT). 

The Mission objectives include developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years.

The Mission will also provide a huge boost to National priorities like Digital India, Make in India, Skill India and Stand-up India, Start-up India, Self-reliant India and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

Mission Implementation includes setting up of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in top academic and National R&D institutes in the 4 domains of quantum technology.

• Quantum Computing
• Quantum Communication
• Quantum Sensing & Metrology 
• Quantum Materials & Devices.

All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE):

• The All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) was set up in 1945 as an advisory body and later on in 1987 given statutory status by an Act of Parliament. 
• The AICTE grants approval for starting new technical institutions, for the introduction of new courses and for variation in intake capacity in technical institutions. 
• It also lays down norms and standards for such institutions to ensure quality of education. 
• HQ- New Delhi.