C-DOT Unveils 14 Indigenous Quantum-Safe Products
Why in the news
The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) unveiled 14 indigenous quantum products on 31 August 2026 during its 43rd Foundation Day celebrations in New Delhi. They are meant to protect communication networks against threats from future quantum computers.
Key facts
- Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): Q-AKSHAY CD is a compact 1U fibre system using COW and DPS protocols; Q-AKSHAY MD uses a measurement-device-independent protocol.
- Components: C-SPD is a single-photon detector and C-RD is a wideband RF driver for modulators.
- Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) encryptors rely on NIST-approved algorithms.
- Other launches: Q-DARSHAN (quantum-safe video IP phone), Q-VACHAN (inline node for existing IP phones), Q-RAQSHAK (enterprise protection), Q-VAAYU (wireless point-to-point links) and Q-VAJRA1000 (access node for GPON and wireless).
| Product | Type | Throughput |
|---|---|---|
| Q-SETU | PQC encryptor, Layer 3 | Up to 80 Mbps |
| Q-MAHASETU | Commercial-grade encryptor | 40 Gbps |
| Q-VIKRAM | Defence-rated encryptor | 1 Gbps |
| Q-PARAKRAM | Defence-grade, proprietary algorithms | 1 Gbps |
| Q-AMOGH | Optical-layer encryptor | 200 Gbps |
About the National Quantum Mission
The mission was approved on 19 April 2023 with an outlay of ₹6,003.65 crore for 2023-24 to 2030-31, under the Ministry of Science and Technology. It has four thematic hubs at IISc Bengaluru, IIT Madras (with C-DOT), IIT Bombay and IIT Delhi.
Exam angle
- Remember the difference: QKD uses quantum physics to distribute keys, while PQC uses classical algorithms designed to resist quantum attacks.
- Product names with throughput figures are favourite static-GK questions.
- C-DOT is a partner in the IIT Madras hub of the National Quantum Mission.