Quantum Technology and Deep Tech Investments on the Rise
India is making a concerted push towards self-reliance in quantum technologies, with significant projects announced on September 15, 2025. The Andhra Pradesh government has unveiled plans for India's first quantum reference facility at Amaravati Quantum Valley, backed by an outlay of ā¹40 crore. This facility aims to support domestic quantum computer manufacturing by providing crucial testing, benchmarking, and characterization of quantum components, thereby reducing reliance on imports and aligning with the broader National Quantum Mission. Additionally, Amber Enterprises India Limited announced an investment of ā¹200 crore to establish a quantum cryogenic components facility. These initiatives are part of a larger vision under Prime Minister Modi's government to redefine India's innovation landscape through targeted deep-tech investments and schemes like the Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Scheme, which is supported by a massive ā¹1 lakh crore fund to place private sector-led high-tech research at the forefront of the nation's growth strategy.
Artificial Intelligence: Economic Impact and Regulatory Framework
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to be a transformative force for India, with the NITI Aayog CEO stating that AI will add an estimated $2 trillion to the Indian economy by 2035. In a move to further establish its position in the global AI discourse, India is set to host the AI Impact Summit in February 2026, as announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. However, alongside this growth, a parliamentary committee has proposed new regulations for content creators utilizing AI, focusing on curbing the spread of fake news. These suggestions include a licensing requirement and mandatory labeling of AI-generated content. Beyond economic and regulatory aspects, AI is already making a tangible difference in critical sectors; for instance, advanced AI-powered forecasts, developed in partnership with the University of Chicago and the Indian Ministry of Agriculture, successfully predicted the onset of the Indian monsoon, aiding 38 million farmers in making informed planting decisions.
Milestones in Space Exploration and Precise Timekeeping
India's prowess in space exploration continues to reach new heights, with the nation achieving nine global records in this domain. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has set an ambitious long-term goal of a crewed lunar landing by 2040. Further solidifying its technological infrastructure, India will soon roll out a project for disseminating precise Indian Standard Time. This initiative, in collaboration with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and ISRO, will be implemented across five strategic locations nationwide.
Fostering Engineering Excellence and Digital Inclusion
The role of engineers in shaping India's technological future was celebrated on National Engineers' Day (September 15, 2025), with the theme "Deep Tech & Engineering Excellence: Driving India's Techade." This highlights the critical contributions of engineers in advancing AI, robotics, quantum computing, and biotechnology. Meanwhile, efforts towards digital inclusion and entrepreneurial growth are gaining momentum, with CSC e-Governance Services India Limited (CSC SPV) surpassing ā¹3,000 crore in loan disbursals since July 2023, significantly benefiting rural and remote areas. In a boost for technical education, the Bihar Science, Technology and Technical Education Minister announced that top-performing engineering and polytechnic students will receive laptops from next year.