QNu Labs demonstrates India's first 500-km Quantum Key Distribution network
Bengaluru-based startup QNu Labs, supported under the National Quantum Mission, announced on the sidelines of ESTIC 2025 in New Delhi on 4 November 2025 that it had demonstrated India's first extensive Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network, spanning over 500 km.
Summary
The QNu Labs QKD network, announced on 4 November 2025 in the presence of Science Minister Dr Jitendra Singh and Principal Scientific Adviser Prof. Ajay K. Sood, runs over existing optical fibre and spans more than 500 km. QNu Labs is one of eight startups supported by the Department of Science and Technology under the National Quantum Mission (NQM), and a new rack design for its 'Quantum Suraksha Kavach' was also launched. The Union Cabinet approved the NQM on 19 April 2023 at a cost of ₹6,003.65 crore for 2023–24 to 2030–31.
Key facts
- Company
- QNu Labs, Bengaluru
- Achievement
- India's first extensive QKD network, over 500 km
- Announced
- 4 Nov 2025, ESTIC 2025
- Support
- One of 8 startups under NQM (DST)
- NQM
- Approved 19 Apr 2023; ₹6,003.65 crore; 2023–24 to 2030–31
Practice MCQs 3 questions
Which Bengaluru-based startup demonstrated India's first extensive Quantum Key Distribution network spanning over 500 km, announced in November 2025?
Show answer
Correct answer: A — QNu Labs
QNu Labs Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru, one of 8 startups supported under the National Quantum Mission, demonstrated the network.
The Quantum Key Distribution network demonstrated by QNu Labs and announced at ESTIC 2025 spans over how many kilometres?
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Correct answer: C — 500 km
The QKD network, deployed over existing optical fibre, spans over 500 kilometres.
The National Quantum Mission, which supports QNu Labs, was approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2023 at what total cost?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — ₹6,003.65 crore
The Cabinet approved the NQM on 19 April 2023 at a total cost of ₹6,003.65 crore for 2023–24 to 2030–31.