Millikelvin cryogenics is a foundational enabler of quantum computing. Discuss India's efforts at indigenisation and the role of DRDO–start-up partnerships.

Superconducting qubits hold quantum states only near absolute zero, making dilution refrigerators that reach the millikelvin (mK) range indispensable infrastructure for quantum computing [1]. India's recent moves signal a shift from importing this enabling hardware to building it at home.

Why millikelvin cryogenics is foundational

• Ultra-low temperatures suppress thermal noise, and are required for the operation and testing of several quantum computing platforms and allied technologies [1].
• Cryostats are supplied by a handful of foreign firms; dependence means long lead times and no control over delivery, a risk for strategic users [1].

India's indigenisation efforts

• The National Quantum Mission (NQM), approved on 19 April 2023 with Rs 6,003.65 crore for 2023-24 to 2030-31, targets 50-1000 physical qubits in eight years — scale that needs repeatable domestic cryogenics [2].
• Four Thematic Hubs with 14 Technical Groups, 152 researchers and 43 institutions separate computing from quantum materials and devices, where cryogenics sits [3].
• Defence R&D has added a dedicated Rs 500 crore deep-tech corpus under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) [1].

Role of DRDO–start-up partnerships

• DRDO signed its first high-value TDF agreement with start-up Zero mK India Pvt Ltd, Alwar, for an indigenous 20 mK dilution refrigerator, explicitly to cut reliance on imported cryogenic infrastructure [1].
• SSPL mentors and monitors the project, pairing start-up agility with national-laboratory rigour [1].
• TDF funds up to 90% of project cost for MSMEs and start-ups, with the ceiling raised to Rs 50 crore per project [4].

Constraints to address

• TDF is grant-in-aid, not a purchase order: 80 projects worth only Rs 334 crore were under implementation as of June 2026, averaging small ticket sizes [5].
• Without assured follow-on orders, a successful prototype may not become a production line; handovers to users, not signings, are the real test [6].

Indigenising millikelvin cryogenics removes one choke point rather than delivering a quantum computer outright, but it is a well-targeted bet. Linking TDF development grants to assured NQM and defence procurement, alongside early publication of acceptance standards, can convert prototypes into sustained capability — advancing Atmanirbharta in strategic technologies.