Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has set a bold vision for Amaravati, saying the capital should grow into a global hub for quantum technology, much like how Silicon Valley became the center for IT.
Speaking at SRM University, he said the goal is not just to adopt technology but to build it within the state. He stressed that India should aim for complete self-reliance in quantum computing and not depend on external systems.
He pointed out that by the time IBM installs a quantum computer in Amaravati this December, India should be ready with its own system developed using indigenous technology. According to him, that should be the direction going forward.
Chandrababu inaugurated quantum reference facilities at SRM University in Amaravati and Medha Towers in Gannavaram. He described this as an important step, saying the focus has now moved from studying quantum systems to actually building and testing them.
These facilities are designed as working testbeds. The 1S quantum system at SRM University will support research, while the 1Q system at Medha Towers is meant for industrial applications. They will be used for testing, validation and certification of quantum components.
He said this is just the beginning and asked scientists to move faster. With proof of concept already in place, the next step is to scale up and build more advanced systems in a short time.
Drawing a comparison with the past, he said the Telugu region played a key role during the IT revolution. Now, it has the opportunity to lead the next phase in quantum technology as well.
He also explained how the initiative took shape. It started with discussions involving experts from IIT Madras and industry leaders, and later gained support from companies like TCS and L&T. With backing from the Centre and guidance from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Amaravati Quantum Mission has moved quickly.
He noted that what normally takes years has been achieved in just eight months. Even when experts initially estimated longer timelines, the team pushed to deliver faster results.
Chandrababu said quantum technology will have wide applications in areas like drug discovery, material science, secure communication, defence and climate research.
His message was clear. Amaravati should not just follow global innovation trends, it should aim to lead them.