Swiss companies and prominent research institutions have shown interest in Karnataka’s proposed “Quantum City” in Bengaluru. Karnataka Minister for Science and Technology N S Boseraju announced these positive responses to partnership opportunities on Wednesday. The state government is implementing programs to establish Bengaluru as a global focal point for the quantum technology sector.
Quantum City Development
The Karnataka government allocated 6.17 acres of land for the Quantum City (Q-City). This site is located at Hesaraghatta in northwestern Bengaluru. The Q-City will feature state-of-the-art laboratories for advanced research and development.
It will also provide incubation facilities specifically for quantum technology startups. Additionally, the city plans infrastructure to foster collaboration between academic institutions and industry partners.
International Engagement with Switzerland
Minister Boseraju held discussions with representatives from leading global quantum research institutions. These included Switzerland’s ETH Zurich and CERN . The Minister shared these insights following his recent official visit to Switzerland.
Dr. Michael Hengartner, President of the ETH Zurich Board, responded positively to a request. This request involved cooperation in quantum research projects. This engagement seeks to leverage international expertise for Karnataka’s quantum development.
Skill Development and Training
Karnataka has initiated programs to cultivate skilled quantum human resources. The state collaborates with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to offer specialized courses. Minister Boseraju emphasized Karnataka’s existing expert talent pool and a conducive environment for new research.
During the Swiss visit, the delegation gathered information from Zurich Instruments. This company manufactures essential instrumentation for Quantum Computing development. Zurich Instruments also agreed to provide training to research students from Karnataka.
Attracting Global Investment
Karnataka actively promoted investment opportunities at the “Swissnex Quantum Summit.” The state’s delegation provided comprehensive information to major global quantum companies. They presented a demonstration of the proposed Quantum City.
Bengaluru’s technological potential was highlighted as a key advantage. The availability of human resources, a favorable investment climate, and strong state government support were also emphasized. The delegation extended an official invitation for global companies to invest in the state’s quantum sector.
Strategic Collaborations and Future Vision
The Boseraju-led delegation visited ETH Zurich, an institution associated with Albert Einstein’s research. The Minister observed that several research innovations at ETH Zurich’s laboratories successfully transitioned into startups. He received a positive response regarding the adoption of a similar innovation ecosystem within Karnataka’s Quantum City.
This discussion also covered requests for collaboration. Minister Boseraju met Prof Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India. This meeting occurred during the “Science and Diplomacy Anticipator Summit” in Geneva. They discussed necessary advice and support to achieve Karnataka’s quantum vision.