SRM University-AP took a major step in advancing next-generation technologies with the inauguration of the three-day Quantum Computing Conclave (QC²) and an intensive 36-hour national hackathon on campus from March 24 – 26, 2026. Designed to strengthen foundational knowledge and industry awareness on quantum technology and related fields, the conclave brought together over 50 high-performing student teams from across the country.
The conclave featured leading experts in quantum technology including Mr Sridhar CV, Mission Director, Amaravati Quantum Valley; Dr Dhinakaran Vinayagamurthy, Manager, IBM Quantum India; Mr Uday Sannigrahi, Quantum Application Engineer, Infinipoint Tech and Dr Kumar Gautam, Director & CEO, Quantum Research and Centre of Excellence (QRACE) & EGREEN QUANTA, India, who will lead training sessions, workshops, and group discussions at the three-day conclave.
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Ch Satish Kumar, welcomed the dignitaries and participants, highlighting the significance of quantum research and education. He stated, “Andhra Pradesh made a promise to India and the world on quantum technology and SRM AP is proud to be part of it. We are the 1st academic partner of the Amaravati Quantum Valley Project.”
Dean-School of Engineering and Sciences (SEAS), Prof. CV Tomy and Dean-Quantum Technology, SRM AP Prof. Somnath Bhattacharyya elaborated on the scopes and opportunities in the evolving field of quantum computing underscoring SRM AP’s plan to develop a mid-sized quantum computer and a diamond-based quantum computer on campus.
Highlighting the Andhra Pradesh government’s ambitious vision to establish a quantum ecosystem in Amaravati, Mr Sridhar CV, Mission Director of Amaravati Quantum Valley, expressed his appreciation for SRM University-AP in extending support for setting up the first Quantum Reference Facility in India.
Mr Sridhar opined, “It is important that India achieves tech sovereignty. With the distinguished focus on Quantum Computing and Technologies, the AP government aims to establish Amaravati Quantum Valley as one of the top five global hubs for quantum research and technologies.” He also outlined quantum technology as a non-silo technology that integrates AI, security and semiconductors.
Dr Kumar Gautam, Director & CEO of QRACE, stated that the top performers in the 36-hour hackathon will be rewarded with internship or placement opportunities along with startup support at QRACE, a research and innovation platform that connects scientists, students, and industry experts.
As a developing nation alongside an emerging field like quantum computing, Mr Uday Sannigrahi encouraged students to build tech innovation and for India, within India. From an IBM perspective, Dr Dhinakaran Vinayagamurthy highlighted the goal of leading the cutting edge of quantum software, middleware, and hardware, appreciating the active participation of students in the Quantum Computing Conclave.
The Quantum Computing Conclave was organised by the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, SRM AP in collaboration with GeeksforGeeks Student Body of SRM AP and Quantum Nexus student club under the aegis of Dr Ashok Kumar Pardhan, Faculty Coordinator and Head of the Department, Computer Science and Engineering Dr Murali Krishna Enduri.
The Quantum Computing Conclave at SRM University-AP aims to foster innovation and practical learning in quantum technologies to push the boundaries of research and application. By bridging academia and industry, the conclave reinforced SRM AP’s commitment to nurturing future-ready talent and advancing India’s role in the global quantum ecosystem.