The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), India’s premier telecom research body under the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, has introduced 14 home-grown quantum products designed to protect India’s communication systems. The products were unveiled during C-DOT’s 43rd Foundation Day celebrations in New Delhi. They address security concerns posed by the rise of quantum computing and are intended for use across telecom, enterprise, wireless, optical, strategic and defence networks.
The Quantum Products
The 14 products fall into two categories: Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) solutions.
Quantum Key Distribution systems:
- Q-AKSHAY CD: A compact fibre-based QKD system using Coherent One Way and Differential Phase Shift protocols
- Q-AKSHAY MD: A fibre-based QKD system using the Measurement Device Independent protocol for enhanced security
- C-SPD: A single-photon detector for quantum communication systems
- C-RD: A wideband RF driver for quantum communication modulators
Quantum-safe encryption products:
- Q-SETU: Supports up to 80 Mbps throughput at Layer 3
- Q-MAHASETU: Supports up to 40 Gbps at Layer 2/3 for enterprise networks
- Q-VIKRAM: Provides 1 Gbps throughput at Layer 2/3 for defence use
- Q-AMOGH: Supports 200 Gbps at Layer 1 for high-capacity optical links
- Q-DARSHAN: A quantum-safe video IP phone
- Q-VACHAN: An in-line node to upgrade existing IP phones
- Q-RAQSHAK: Enterprise network solution
- Q-VAAYU: Wireless point-to-point network solution
- Q-VAJRA1000: Access node compatible with GPON and wireless radios
- Q-PARAKRAM: Defence-grade encryptor with 1 Gbps throughput
All encryption products use algorithms approved by the National Institute of Standards and Technology for post-quantum cryptography protection.
What this means for you
These products will help secure India’s communication networks against future threats from quantum computers, which could break current encryption methods. Telecom operators, defence agencies, enterprise networks and government organisations can use these solutions to upgrade existing systems or build new quantum-resistant infrastructure. The development of these products domestically reduces India’s dependence on foreign quantum security technology and supports the government’s push for self-reliance in critical technologies.