Rajnath Singh Pushes for Indigenous AI & Quantum Tech at IIT Mandi

Mandi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the need for indigenous AI-driven war strategies, quantum computing, and advanced AI chips during the 16th Foundation Day celebrations of IIT Mandi.

Addressing students and researchers, he urged them to focus on technological self-reliance to strengthen India’s defense capabilities.

Singh highlighted the disruptive potential of quantum computing, citing Google’s quantum chip Willow, which can perform calculations in minutes that would take a supercomputer billions of years.

“India must not only keep up with these advancements but lead the way,” he asserted. He called on IIT Mandi to play a key role in developing AI-powered defense systems, indigenous AI chips, and robust cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard national security.

IIT Mandi’s Advancements in Quantum and AI

IIT Mandi has emerged as a leading research hub in artificial intelligence, robotics, drone technology, and semiconductor design. The institute has developed a 16-channel quantum neuromorphic computer designed for military-grade cybersecurity applications, which utilizes quantum cryptography to protect critical defense communications.

Plans are already underway to expand this project into a 64-channel system, further solidifying India’s independence in defense technology.

The event was attended by prominent figures, including former Himachal Pradesh CM Jairam Thakur, Principal Advisor to the CM Gokul Butail, and MLA Puran Chand Thakur.

Experts like Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, VC of CSJM University Kanpur, and Dr. Amit Kumar Pandey, CTO of Robotics & AI at Rovial Space, France, also graced the occasion.

Chairman of IIT Mandi’s Board of Governors, Lt. Gen. Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon (Retd.), and Director Prof. Laxmidhar Behera outlined the institute’s vision for enhancing India’s defense technology ecosystem.

IIT Mandi’s Role in National Development

Reflecting on 16 years of innovation, Prof. Behera reaffirmed IIT Mandi’s commitment to developing cutting-edge technologies with real-world impact.

The institute is actively fostering a startup ecosystem to translate research into practical solutions for national security, disaster management, and industrial growth.

The event concluded with an exhibition showcasing IIT Mandi’s latest innovations, including AI-powered surveillance systems, drones, and next-gen semiconductor designs.

Singh toured the exhibition, commending students for their dedication to national service. “Institutes like IIT Mandi are shaping the future of India’s defense and technology sector,” he remarked.

Munish Sood (Mandi)