Priyank Kharge
| Photo Credit: ALLEN EGENUSE J.
India’s first commercial Quantum Computer to be deployed at the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) in Dharwad, said Priyank Kharge, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, IT & BT.
“Karnataka is moving decisively in the quantum space. The deployment of India’s first commercial Quantum Computer at IIIT-Dharwad marks a significant milestone in our journey to build a world-class quantum ecosystem,” he said.
The Minister on Wednesday had meetings with the Bengaluru-based deeptech company QpiAI and Singapore-based ZWEEC, to discuss on advancing Karnataka’s leadership in quantum technologies and strengthening rural water security.
“Through strong collaboration with companies like QpiAI, the State government was committed to advancing the Karnataka Quantum Roadmap while ensuring that cutting-edge technology translates into real impact,” Mr. Kharge said.
According to the Minister, the deployment of the country’s first indigenously built Quantum Computer for commercial use at the IIIT-Dharwad, where the State government has recently announced a Centre of Excellence in Quantum AI and Computing, was happening at a quick momentum.
The QpiAI team also briefed Mr. Kharge on their ambitious roadmap to scale from a 25-qubit quantum computer to a 1,000-qubit system within the next two to three years, positioning Karnataka as a key hub for advanced quantum research, talent development, and industry collaboration.
The discussions reaffirmed the State government’s commitment to working closely with deeptech companies to accelerate innovation, research, and commercial applications in quantum computing, the Minister said.
The ZWEEC, a Singapore-based company specialising in advanced water technology solutions, may work with rural water supply and sanitation department, Mr. Kharge said.
According to the Minister, he had discussions with the representatives of the ZWEEC which offers solutions for early detection of drinking water contamination, algal blooms, and intelligent monitoring of water infrastructure through automated and data-driven technologies.
“These solutions have relevance for rural drinking water systems and the government will evaluate the technology further. The possibility of exploring a pilot project in partnership with the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Department will also be examined to assess on-ground effectiveness and scalability,” Mr. Kharge added.
Published – January 08, 2026 10:09 pm IST
