The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has signed its first high-value agreement under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme with a start-up based in Rajasthan. The project involves developing an indigenously manufactured dilution refrigerator capable of reaching temperatures of 20 millikelvin, a critical requirement for quantum computing applications. The agreement was signed between DRDO’s TDF directorate and Zero mK India Private Limited, based in Alwar, Rajasthan.
This is the first major project to receive funding from a Rs 500 crore corpus that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had previously approved for deep technology and cutting-edge research initiatives. The collaboration marks a shift towards public-private partnerships in developing advanced technologies that India currently depends on imports to obtain.
Key facts
- Agreement signed between DRDO’s Technology Development Fund and Zero mK India Private Limited
- Location of start-up: Alwar, Rajasthan
- Target temperature: 20 millikelvin (20 mK)
- Total TDF corpus approved: Rs 500 crore
- Project aligns with India’s National Quantum Mission
- Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL) will monitor and mentor the project
What is a dilution refrigerator and why does it matter
A dilution refrigerator is a specialised piece of equipment used in laboratories and research facilities to generate extremely cold environments. It achieves temperatures in the millikelvin range, which is just a fraction of a degree above absolute zero. At such extreme cold, the normal rules of physics change, and materials begin to behave in unusual ways.
Quantum computers require these ultra-cold temperatures to function. The quantum bits, or qubits, that form the basis of quantum computers are sensitive to heat and vibrations. Any disturbance can cause them to lose their quantum properties, a problem known as decoherence. By maintaining temperatures near absolute zero, researchers can keep qubits stable long enough to perform calculations.
Why indigenous development matters
Until now, India has imported dilution refrigerators and other cryogenic equipment from abroad, at significant cost and with long delivery times. Developing domestic manufacturing capability will reduce this dependence and lower costs for Indian research institutions and companies working on quantum technology.
The project directly supports India’s National Quantum Mission, a government programme aimed at building quantum computing capacity and expertise within the country. By creating local manufacturing expertise, India can build a self-sufficient quantum technology ecosystem without relying on foreign suppliers.
How the Technology Development Fund works
The TDF scheme was created to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research happening in government laboratories like DRDO and the commercial applications that industry can develop. Under this scheme, DRDO provides funding and technical expertise to private companies and start-ups working on deep technology projects that have strategic importance to India.
The Rs 500 crore corpus represents a substantial investment in this model. By partnering with Zero mK India, DRDO gains access to entrepreneurial innovation and manufacturing capability, while the start-up gains access to DRDO’s scientific expertise, laboratory facilities and credibility in the quantum technology space.
Monitoring and support structure
The Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), one of DRDO’s premier research institutions, will oversee the project’s progress. This ensures that technical standards are maintained and that the final product meets India’s requirements for quantum applications. Multiple DRDO directorates, including those responsible for microelectronics and technology management, will provide support.
What this means for you
For researchers and institutions in India working on quantum computing, this project promises more affordable access to essential equipment. For start-ups and companies in the quantum technology sector, it signals that the government is investing in the infrastructure needed to build a thriving ecosystem. For students pursuing physics, materials science or quantum computing, it indicates growing career opportunities in these emerging fields within India.
The success of this partnership could also serve as a model for future DRDO-industry collaborations in other advanced technology areas, potentially accelerating India’s development of indigenous capabilities in strategic sectors.