IIT Madras has introduced a significant innovation: India’s first Silicon Photonics-based high-speed Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG). This technology promises to improve IT security across diverse sectors, including the military, defense, financial transactions, blockchain, and gaming. The product will be brought to market through a partnership with Indrarka Quantum Technologies Pvt. Ltd., a result of research by IIT Madras faculty, students, and scientists. This collaborative effort highlights the potential of academia-industry cooperation.
The QRNG was developed at IIT Madras’s Centre for Programmable Photonic Integrated Circuit and Systems (CPPICS). A licensing agreement, valued at Rs 1 crore, has been finalized between IIT Madras and the private company. The QRNG has essential applications in IT security for the military and defense, cryptographic algorithms, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), and more. This achievement is a crucial step in translating cutting-edge research into market-ready products. The initiative also acknowledges support from MeitY, Government of India, and is considered a noteworthy milestone in India’s research journey. This development proves that focused R&D can deliver technologies of national significance, especially when backed by strong industry partnerships.