Team siliconindia

• QpiAI develops India’s first 64-qubit quantum processor, Kaveri 64.
• QNu Labs builds large-scale quantum key distribution (QKD) network for secure communication.
• Both innovations supported by I-Hub Quantum Technology Foundation at IISER Pune.

Two startups backed by the I-Hub Quantum Technology Foundation at IISER Pune have made remarkable strides in India’s quantum technology landscape. Bengaluru-based QpiAI has unveiled Kaveri 64, a 64-qubit quantum processor, while QNu Labs has created the country’s first large-scale quantum key distribution (QKD) network to strengthen digital communication security.

The Kaveri 64 processor uses the principles of quantum mechanics to process information much faster than traditional computers. Unlike regular bits that can be either 0 or 1, quantum bits or qubits, can exist as both simultaneously, enabling parallel computation. This capability can transform industries such as drug discovery, cryptography, and climate modeling. QpiAI expects the processor to be commercially available by late 2026 for research institutions, enterprises, and government use.

QNu Labs’ QKD network, tested successfully with the Indian Army’s Southern Command over a 500 km optical fiber link, makes eavesdropping nearly impossible, even for future quantum computers. The company has also developed a quantum random number generator for stronger encryption in defense, banking, and finance sectors.

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IISER Pune Director Sunil Bhagwat said these achievements showcase how academia can fuel national technology development. I-Hub CEO Kunj Tandon added that the advances align with India’s National Quantum Mission, which aims to build strong capabilities in quantum computing and communication by 2031.