AP Approves IBM Quantum Innovation Center in Amaravati

In a major push to its ambitions of becoming a national leader in advanced technologies, the Andhra Pradesh government has approved the establishment of an IBM Quantum Innovation Center within the Amaravati Quantum Computing Center (AQCC) .

The approval was formally issued by IT Secretary Bhaskar Katamneni , paving the way for Andhra Pradesh to join the prestigious IBM Quantum Network , a global ecosystem that connects leading academic institutions, industries, startups and research organizations working in the field of quantum computing.

The IBM Quantum Network includes several internationally renowned organizations, including Boeing, Wells Fargo and Cleveland Clinic, and serves as a platform for collaboration in quantum research, innovation and workforce development. By becoming part of this network, Andhra Pradesh aims to strengthen its access to global expertise and emerging opportunities in one of the world's fastest-evolving technology sectors.

According to the government order, IBM Quantum has proposed setting up the innovation center within the AQCC framework to support cooperation in quantum education, advanced research, innovation, skill development and international engagement initiatives . The center is expected to help researchers, students, startups and industry partners gain exposure to cutting-edge quantum technologies and foster a stronger innovation ecosystem in the state.

The move builds on the government's earlier efforts to establish AQCC under the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 , with the objective of accelerating quantum computing research and encouraging industry participation. Officials believe the new partnership will further enhance Andhra Pradesh's ability to attract investment, talent and research collaborations in the deep-tech sector.

At the same time, the government clarified that the broader Amaravati Quantum Valley (AQV) initiative will continue to remain the state's flagship quantum technology project. Conceived as a comprehensive ecosystem, AQV seeks to bring together universities, research institutions, startups, industries and government agencies under a single collaborative platform to drive innovation and commercial applications of quantum technologies.

Importantly, the government has stated that the agreement with IBM does not place any immediate or future financial burden on the state exchequer. Bhaskar Katamneni noted that the arrangement does not involve recurring expenditure or additional budgetary commitments. Any future financial obligations, if required, would be subject to separate approval from the government.

The approval marks another significant step in Andhra Pradesh's efforts to position Amaravati as a premier destination for quantum computing research, innovation and talent development , while strengthening its integration with the global quantum technology landscape.