C-DOT & Synergy Quantum Partner for Drone-Based Quantum Key Distribution

Current Context: On May 12, 2025, in New Delhi, India, C-DOT and Synergy Quantum India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), enhancing India's quantum-secure communication capabilities.

Highlights:

• The QKD systems will use the decoy-based BB84 protocol with polarization encoding, targeting Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 or higher.
• The initiative aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting indigenous innovation in secure telecom technologies.
• The collaboration will focus on secure data transmission for defense, emergency response, and government networks.
• Joint research proposals will be developed for national and international grants, with dissemination through academic publications, conferences, and expert talks.
• The MoU was signed in the presence of Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay (CEO, C-DOT), Jay Oberoi (CEO, Synergy Quantum India), and other senior officials.

Question:

Q.1 On May 12, 2025, C-DOT signed an MoU with which company to develop drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems?
a) ISRO
b) Synergy Quantum India
c) Bharat Electronics Limited
d) Infosys

Answer: b) C-DOT (Centre for Development of Telematics) partnered with Synergy Quantum India to develop QKD systems. This collaboration aims to boost India’s quantum-secure communication capabilities.