Anyone from Andhra to win Nobel in quantum research will get Rs-100 crore award: CM Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu addressing thousands of students virtually on Tuesday.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday promised a Rs 100-crore award to anybody who bags a Nobel Prize in quantum computing for their research carried out in Andhra Pradesh.

Addressing thousands of students virtually, the chief minister underscored that the southern state will work towards developing next-generation skills, create thousands of high-value jobs, adopt a product-centric approach, develop all types of quantum computers and achieve a complete supply chain in manufacturing quantum computers.

He unveiled the state's Quantum Vision to catapult the greenfield capital city of Amaravati, which will host the Quantum Valley, as one of the world's top five quantum computing hubs.

"Andhra Pradesh Vision: Quantum Valley in Amaravati. Andhra Pradesh will not follow, we will lead...everybody is prepared to produce quantum computers in Amaravati. Almost all 80 per cent or 85 per cent component partners are ready," said Naidu.

Within two years, the quantum computers will be produced in Amaravati, and added that if anybody wants to launch any knowledge company or technology, they have to come to Amaravati, the CM expressed confidence.

Moreover, he advised students to shun traditional thinking in favour of innovation and a product-based future.

The virtual event was attended by representatives of leading technology firms, the directors of IIT Madras and IIT Tirupati, and thousands of technology students. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister underscored the significance of the announcement, pointing out that the monetary component of the actual Nobel Prize is far smaller than the reward now being offered by the state.

He went on to explain that quantum applications have the potential to revolutionise healthcare by enabling personalised medicine, preventive care systems and advanced treatment techniques. The Chief Minister said the government aims to train one lakh quantum professionals and position Andhra Pradesh as a global hub for quantum technology.

This is not the first time Naidu has made such a grand offer. In January 2017, during a children's science congress, he made a similar promise of ₹100 crore for any Nobel laureate from the state, regardless of the field. He also announced a similar award for Nobel recognition in natural farming in October 2018.