Which of the following statements with regard to the National Quantum Mission (NQM) is/are correct? 1. It aims at developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits. 2. Its implementation includes setting up of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in academic and national R&D institutes across India. Select the answer using the code given below :

The correct answer is C) Both 1 and 2.

Statement 1 is correct: The National Quantum Mission (NQM), approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2023 with an outlay of ₹6,003.65 crore, explicitly aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits within an eight-year timeframe. These computers will be developed across various platforms, including superconducting and photonic technologies.

Statement 2 is correct: A core structural component of the NQM's implementation is the establishment of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in top academic and national R&D institutes across India. These hubs operate on a hub-and-spoke model to drive foundational and applied research. The four designated domains are Quantum Computing (hosted at IISc Bengaluru), Quantum Communication (IIT Madras), Quantum Sensing and Metrology (IIT Bombay), and Quantum Materials and Devices (IIT Delhi).

Why other options are incorrect:

• Option A is incorrect: It ignores the establishment of the four vital Thematic Hubs, which are essential to the decentralized R&D framework of the mission.
• Option B is incorrect: It fails to account for the primary hardware objective of developing quantum computers with a capacity of 50-1000 physical qubits.
• Option D is incorrect: It wrongly invalidates both factual components of the officially approved policy.

Concluding Takeaway: The NQM establishes India as the seventh country globally to have a dedicated quantum initiative. To remember the four T-Hub domains, use the acronym CCSM: Computing, Communication, Sensing, and Materials.