UPSC Prelims 2026 Question:

Which of the following statements with regard to the National Quantum Mission (NQM) is/are correct?

1. It aims at developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits.
2. Its implementation includes setting up of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in academic and national R&D  institutes across India. 

Select the answer using the code given below: 

Answer: 3 

Explanation:  

The National Quantum Mission is a major Indian initiative to build capabilities in quantum technologies  and applications. It covers quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing and metrology,  and quantum materials and devices. The mission aims to strengthen India’s research ecosystem and support development of indigenous quantum hardware, software and applications. 

• The National Quantum Mission aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50– 1000 physical qubits over the mission period. This is one of its key targets under quantum computing  and is meant to support India’s long-term capacity in advanced computing technologies. So, statement 1  is correct. 
• The implementation of the mission includes setting up four Thematic Hubs in top academic and  national research and development institutes. These T-Hubs focus on quantum computing, quantum  communication, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum materials and devices. So, statement 2 is  correct. 

Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.