Andhra Pradesh to Launch India’s First Quantum Testbeds on April 14: A Game-Changer for Startups and Research
On April 14, 2026—designated as World Quantum Day—Andhra Pradesh is poised to etch its name into the annals of Indian scientific history . Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will inaugurate two state-of-the-art quantum computing testbeds, named 1S and 1Q, at SRM University in the capital region and Medha Towers in Gannavaram, respectively .
This landmark initiative, part of the ambitious Amaravati Quantum Valley programme, makes Andhra Pradesh the first state in India to host a dedicated quantum test and certification ecosystem . For the first time, Indian startups, researchers, and students will have access to domestically developed quantum hardware infrastructure—an open-access platform designed to accelerate innovation in one of the most transformative technologies of our time.
“For the first time in the country, an indigenous quantum computing testing facility is being launched.”
— PS Pradyumna, Secretary to Chief Minister
The Infrastructure: 1S and 1Q Quantum Testbeds
The two facilities, while distinct in their technical specifications, share a common mission: to provide an accessible platform for testing and certifying quantum hardware components.
| Testbed | Location | Developer | Technology |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1Q | Medha Towers, Gannavaram | Qubitech | General-purpose quantum testbed |
| 1S | SRM University, Amaravati | SRM University (with Qubitech) | Superconducting quantum technology |
Operating at the Edge of Absolute Zero
Both systems operate at temperatures approaching minus 273 degrees Celsius (-273°C) —just a fraction above absolute zero . This extreme cryogenic environment is essential for activating qubits (quantum bits) and testing sensitive quantum components such as cables, amplifiers, and control systems with the precision required for reliable quantum operations .
Indigenously Developed, Globally Competitive
Crucially, both facilities have been built entirely using indigenously developed technology and equipment . This marks a significant stride toward self-reliance in deep-tech innovation, reducing dependency on foreign infrastructure for quantum research.
The initiative has received technical support from premier national institutions, including:
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)
- Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
- Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Open Access: A Platform for Startups and Researchers
What sets these testbeds apart from conventional research facilities is their open-access model. The facility at SRM University is specifically designed to be accessible to:
- Startups working on quantum hardware and software
- Researchers from academic institutions across the country
- Students seeking hands-on exposure to quantum computing
- Companies developing quantum-enabled solutions
“We are making this facility open for students, researchers and startups. It will give them hands-on exposure, which is very important in a field like quantum technology.”
— PS Pradyumna, Secretary to Chief Minister
Previously, India lacked such dedicated quantum testbeds. The Amaravati Quantum Reference Facilities (AQRF) now establish the first two such facilities in the country, set up by startups Qbit Force and Qubitech, with assembly beginning after the systems arrived in Amaravati on March 30 .
These systems are designed to rigorously evaluate quantum devices—including cables, amplifiers, and control systems—under extreme cryogenic conditions essential for reliable quantum operations .
The Broader Vision: Amaravati Quantum Valley
The testbed launch is not an isolated event; it is the cornerstone of a much larger vision: transforming Amaravati into a global quantum technology hub.
The Quantum Computing Policy (2025–30)
The Andhra Pradesh government has already unveiled a dedicated Quantum Computing Policy covering the period 2025–2030 . The policy outlines a comprehensive roadmap for building the state’s quantum ecosystem, including talent development, infrastructure creation, and industry partnerships.
A 133-Qubit Quantum Computer
In a landmark collaboration, the state is developing a 133-qubit quantum computer in partnership with IBM, supported by TCS, L&T, and national research institutions including TIFR and CSIR .
A 50-Acre Quantum Valley
The government is developing a dedicated “Quantum Valley” at Uddandarayunipalem over 50 acres, designed to attract global research institutions, talent, and investment .
Global Collaborations
More than 80 global companies and institutions have signed agreements to collaborate with Andhra Pradesh’s quantum initiative . This international interest underscores the state’s potential to emerge as a serious contender in the global quantum race.
Talent Development: 4.5 Million Professionals
Training programs are already underway to prepare:
The Inauguration Event: April 14, 2026
The launch event on April 14 is being planned as a major national moment for India’s quantum ambitions .
In-Person Attendance:
The event will be held at the Vikram Sarabhai Block of SRM University, Amaravati, where the Quantum Hardware Test Bed will be formally launched. The programme is scheduled to begin at 2 PM .
Virtual Participation:
Arrangements have been made for over 1.5 lakh (150,000) students from universities and colleges across Andhra Pradesh to attend the event virtually .
Distinguished Participants:
The inauguration will witness participation from:
- Representatives of the National Quantum Mission
- IIT professors and quantum scientists
- Startup founders from across the country
- Research scholars and industry experts
Ahead of the Chief Minister’s visit, Guntur Joint Collector Ashutosh Srivastava inspected the arrangements at SRM University, directing district officials and university authorities to coordinate closely to ensure the smooth conduct of the event .
Why This Matters for India’s Startup Ecosystem
The establishment of quantum testbeds in Amaravati carries profound implications for India’s deep-tech and startup landscape.
1. Bridging the Quantum Skills Gap
Quantum computing requires a highly specialised skill set that is currently scarce in India. The open-access testbeds will provide hands-on training opportunities for students and researchers, helping to build a talent pipeline that can support the growth of quantum startups.
2. Reducing Hardware Dependency
Previously, Indian startups working on quantum hardware had to rely on foreign facilities for testing and validation—a costly and time-consuming process. The Amaravati testbeds provide a domestic alternative, reducing costs and accelerating development cycles.
3. Catalysing Startup Formation
Access to quantum hardware is a significant barrier to entry for early-stage ventures. By lowering this barrier, the testbeds are expected to catalyse the formation of new quantum startups in India, creating a vibrant ecosystem of hardware and software innovators.
4. Positioning India in the Global Quantum Race
Countries around the world—including the US, China, Germany, and Japan—are investing billions in quantum technology. With this initiative, India is signalling its intent to compete at the highest level, not just as a consumer of quantum technology but as a developer of quantum hardware and intellectual property.
5. A Blueprint for Other States
Andhra Pradesh’s proactive approach—launching a dedicated policy, building infrastructure, and forging global partnerships—provides a blueprint that other states can follow to build their own deep-tech ecosystems.
Applications Across Sectors
Quantum computing is expected to revolutionise multiple sectors, and the Amaravati Quantum Valley initiative is positioning itself to support innovation across all of them :
| Sector | Potential Quantum Applications |
|---|---|
| Drug Discovery | Simulating molecular interactions to accelerate vaccine and drug development |
| Healthcare | Personalised medicine, genomic analysis |
| Weather Modelling | More accurate and longer-range climate and weather predictions |
| Semiconductors | Designing next-generation chips |
| Logistics | Optimising supply chains and routing |
| Defence & Aerospace | Cryptography, secure communications, materials science |
| Financial Services | Portfolio optimisation, risk modelling, fraud detection |
The Road Ahead: From Testbeds to Global Leadership
The launch of the 1S and 1Q testbeds on April 14 is just the beginning. The Amaravati Quantum Valley initiative has set ambitious targets for the coming years:
2026: Testbeds operational; talent development programmes scaled
2027–28: 133-qubit quantum computer operational; Quantum Valley infrastructure developed
2028–30: India positioned among the world’s top five centres for quantum innovation
As Chief Minister Naidu has previously stated, “Quantum technology will play a key role in governance, healthcare and future industries. Amaravati will emerge as a global hub” .
The initiative echoes the IT revolution that Naidu spearheaded in Hyderabad three decades ago, which transformed the city into a global technology hub. Officials believe that Amaravati’s emergence as a quantum hub will place Andhra Pradesh among the world’s top five centres for quantum innovation, replicating that success in the deep-tech era .
How Startups Can Get Involved
For startups working in quantum technology or adjacent fields, the Amaravati Quantum Valley initiative offers several pathways to engagement:
- Access the Testbeds: Startups can apply for access to the 1S and 1Q facilities for testing and validation of quantum hardware components.
- Collaborate on Research: The open-access model encourages collaboration between startups and academic institutions.
- Participate in Talent Development: Startups can engage with training programs to build quantum-ready teams.
- Explore Global Partnerships: With over 80 global collaborators already signed, startups may find opportunities for international co-development.
- Relocate to Amaravati: As the Quantum Valley develops, the region is expected to offer incentives and infrastructure for quantum-focused startups.
The Final Word
On April 14, 2026, Andhra Pradesh will take a historic step into the quantum future. The launch of India’s first indigenous quantum computing testbeds marks a turning point—not just for the state, but for the nation’s deep-tech ambitions.
For startups, researchers, and students, the message is clear: the infrastructure is being built, the policy is in place, and the doors are opening. Quantum technology is no longer a distant promise—it is a present reality, and Amaravati is positioning itself at its very centre.
As the Amaravati Quantum Valley initiative gathers momentum, the world will be watching. And for the first time, India will be not just a participant in the quantum revolution, but a leader.
