DRDO signs first high-value TDF deep-tech pact for indigenous quantum refrigerator

New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has signed its first high-value deep-tech project agreement under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme with Rajasthan-based start-up Zero mK India Pvt Ltd to develop an indigenous 20 millikelvin (mK) dilution refrigerator for quantum applications. The agreement was signed in New Delhi between the Director of TDF and the Alwar-based company on September 24, marking the first project under a ₹500-crore corpus approved for deep-tech and cutting-edge technologies.

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Dilution refrigerators are specialised cryogenic systems that reach extremely low temperatures in the millikelvin range. Such conditions are required to operate and test several quantum computing platforms and related technologies. Developing the equipment domestically is intended to strengthen India’s capabilities in advanced cryogenics and support the growth of its quantum technology ecosystem.

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The project aligns with the National Quantum Mission and is expected to help reduce dependence on imported cryogenic infrastructure. It also marks a step in expanding DRDO’s engagement with start-ups on emerging technologies, beyond conventional defence manufacturing.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the start-up and other stakeholders, expressing confidence that the partnership would set a precedent for future collaborations in emerging technology areas. The project will be monitored and mentored by the Director of DRDO’s Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL) and his team, according to the press release.

The agreement brings together a government defence research organisation and a domestic start-up to develop specialised equipment with potential applications in a strategically important technology field. Its progress will offer an early indication of how the TDF’s dedicated deep-tech funding can support indigenous development of complex technologies.

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