Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF), Features, Significance

On 14 April 2026, the World Quantum Day, the Government of Andhra Pradesh inaugurated the Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF) at Amaravati.

What is Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF)?

The Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF) is India’s first indigenous, open-access platform for testing quantum computing technology in real-world conditions. It helps scientists and companies check how well quantum machines perform and compare different systems.

It has two main parts:

• Amaravati 1S: Located at SRM University-AP, this system is meant for students, researchers, and academic work. It allows open access for learning, experiments, and research in quantum computing.
• Amaravati 1Q: Located at Medha Towers (Vijaywada), this system focuses on industry use. It supports companies in testing quantum technologies and working on practical applications.

Together, these two facilities make Andhra Pradesh the first state in India to set up a dedicated quantum testing platform, helping it take a lead in developing advanced quantum technology infrastructure.

Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF) Key Features 

Indigenous Development:

• The AQRF has been developed with nearly 85% indigenous components, marking the first time a full-stack quantum system has been assembled in India. 
• It involved collaboration among premier institutions such as Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Indian Institute of Science, Defence Research and Development Organisation, and IIT Bombay, along with startups like Qubitech and Qbit Force.

Open-Access Architecture:

• Unlike many imported quantum systems that function as closed “black boxes,” AQRF allows full access to hardware and systems. 
• This enables researchers, students, and startups to experiment, innovate, and understand the underlying technology in a hands-on manner.

Extreme Operating Conditions:

• The facility operates at temperatures close to absolute zero (−273°C), which is essential for stabilizing quantum bits (qubits) and ensuring reliable quantum operations.

Advanced Hardware Approach:

• AQRF focuses on diamond-based quantum computing, particularly using Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) centres in synthetic diamonds. 
• This allows for longer coherence times and even opens pathways toward room-temperature quantum systems.
• Additionally, research is being conducted on superconducting devices and advanced materials like tantalum for high-fidelity quantum processors.

The AQRF is part of a larger strategy to transform Andhra Pradesh into a deep-tech hub. The state envisions a Quantum Valley in Amaravati, a Space City in Tirupati, a Drone Hub in Orvakal, and Semiconductor and med-tech clusters in cities like Visakhapatnam and Anantapur.

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Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility Institutional Framework

The Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF) is part of the larger Amaravati Quantum Valley (AQV) initiative, which aims to develop Amaravati into a global hub for quantum technologies.

• The project operates within the framework of India’s National Quantum Mission, which seeks to build a robust quantum ecosystem.
• AQV is expected to host advanced quantum systems, including a 100+ qubit-class computer, and has already attracted multiple academic and industrial partnerships.
• The collaboration between the state government and SRM University-AP through a formal agreement makes it the first academic institution in India to host such a facility.

Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF) Functions and Capabilities

The Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF) serves as a national-level shared platform with multiple critical functions:

• It enables validation and benchmarking of quantum processors, cryogenic systems, and control electronics under real conditions.
• It provides a pathway for certification of quantum components, which is essential for building trust in industrial applications.
• It supports research across domains, including quantum electronics, quantum materials, quantum communication, and quantum machine learning.
• It promotes hands-on skill development, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.

Amaravati Quantum Reference Facility (AQRF) Significance

• Technological Self-Reliance: AQRF contributes directly to India’s goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat by reducing dependence on imported quantum technologies and breaking global monopolies in critical subsystems.
• Strategic and Economic Impact: The technologies developed through AQRF, such as cryogenics and precision electronics, have applications in defence, healthcare, and semiconductor industries.
• Workforce Development: By providing real access to quantum hardware, the facility helps train a new generation of engineers and scientists equipped for the quantum era.
• Building a National Network: AQRF is envisioned as the first node in a future network of quantum reference facilities across India, similar to global models.
• Sectoral Applications: Quantum computing enabled by such facilities has the potential to transform sectors like drug discovery, agriculture optimisation, and climate modelling.