quantum computing

IBM is set to receive $1 billion from the US government as part of a $2 billion quantum computing funding package. This investment, aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing and accelerating development in strategic technology sectors, includes minority equity stakes for the government.

Amaravati, the newly anointed capital city of Andhra Pradesh, is still under construction, but its Quantum Valley project is already luring deeptech startups, scientists and engineers to move in as the first settlers and work on the next frontier of technology

Universities Introduce Specialised Programmes Aligned With Industry, Emerging Technologies

The IITs, including Hyderabad, Tirupati, and Madras, are broadening their appeal by welcoming students who wish to explore non-engineering fields. By taking entrance exams like UCEED, JAM, and CAT, candidates can unlock a variety of programs that range from design to management and liberal arts.

India's student startups are pivoting from consumer internet to deep-tech, with AI, defence, and climate leading the charge. This shift signifies a rise in technical sophistication, as evidenced by a surge in PhD founders and a widening geographical spread of innovation beyond major metros. Edtech and services sectors have seen a notable decline.

Maharashtra is poised to become an AI powerhouse, aiming for over 1.5 lakh jobs and ₹10,000 crore investment by 2031. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis unveiled ambitious plans including AI Centers of Excellence and a startup fund. This initiative aligns with the state's goal of a $1 trillion economy by 2030, driven by technology and innovation.

Sharda University is rapidly emerging as a leading institution in India's knowledge-driven economy, recognized for its cutting-edge research, AI integration, and global collaborations. With a strong focus on innovation and impact, the university boasts significant research output, faculty excellence, and robust mechanisms for intellectual property commercialization, positioning itself as a key player in Viksit Bharat's ambitions.

During the convocation at Nalanda University, P.K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, underscored the pivotal role of Asia in global affairs alongside India’s robust economic position. He championed a model of sustainable development that integrates knowledge, values, and harmonious living.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon warns of US weaknesses in defense and supply chains. He announces a ten-year, $1.5 trillion initiative to invest in critical sectors. This plan targets advanced manufacturing, defense, energy, frontier technologies, and pharmaceuticals. Investors are watching closely as economic strength and national security become increasingly linked.

In a strategic move, the US is pushing to wrap up a trade deal with India that seeks to expand market access and lower trade obstacles, aiming for a remarkable $500 billion in trade by 2030. This agreement is set to bolster supply chain resiliency and attract foreign investments.

Prime Minister Modi's five-nation tour secured nearly $40 billion in investment, with over 50 global firms pledging fresh capital and expansion. Key sectors like semiconductors, defence, and energy saw significant commitments. India elevated ties with the UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, and Italy, fostering strategic partnerships and boosting economic cooperation.

India and Italy have elevated their ties to a Special Strategic Partnership, fostering deeper cooperation in defence, technology, and trade. A defence roadmap for co-development and co-production of military platforms was agreed upon, alongside an ambitious €20 billion trade target by 2029. Discussions also covered global security, including West Asia and Ukraine, and maritime cooperation.

Prime Minister Modi wrapped up his tour in Sweden with a monumental advancement in India-Sweden relations, officially turning it into a Strategic Partnership. Highlights of this collaboration include a detailed action plan for the upcoming years (2026-2030) and a groundbreaking partnership on AI and quantum computing.

Former NITI Aayog member Arvind Virmani advocates for India to leverage Artificial Intelligence to boost human productivity, not replace workers. He emphasizes combining AI with India's vast workforce, focusing on practical applications in healthcare, education, and agriculture, rather than solely pursuing robotics. Virmani also stresses early AI education integration and government support for AI research and development.

India and Japan on Wednesday strengthened their cooperation in emerging technologies and health research, with both countries exchanging agreements in the fields of quantum science and medical devices during a high-level bilateral meeting in New Delhi.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party for using derogatory language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Goyal emphasized India's enhanced global reputation and robust strategic partnerships, citing strong ties with the US and significant investment deals secured during Prime Minister Modi's recent foreign visits. These engagements underscore India's growing influence and trusted partnership status worldwide.