Why did you set up your R&D centre in IIT-H?
First off, Hyderabad itself has a robust tech ecosystem. You already have several companies here that work on advanced technologies. It’s a hub for innovation.
Second, IIT Hyderabad in particular had the right ingredients — a set of professors and scientists actively working in quantum technology. It wasn’t just the infrastructure or branding; we had people who were genuinely interested and supportive of what we were trying to build.
That support was invaluable. We had access to not just labs, but also collaborative minds, people who could help lead initiatives and mentor the team. We also built partnerships with other industries in the area, which helped us scale.
And then there’s something intangible but very important — the rapport, the comfort level we had with the faculty and the institution. Sometimes, even if a place has the best facilities, the human connection may be missing. Here, we had both.
Also, IIT Hyderabad offers an MTech programme in Quantum Technology and Devices, which ensures a regular inflow of trained graduates. That was a bonus for us because you always need new people. As your team grows, people move on, and you need a pipeline of skilled talent. So yes, setting up in IIT Hyderabad was a very strategic decision.