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 three day event, witnessed an overwhelming participation of over 1200 registrations from students across the country, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for quantum computing and emerging technologies.
The valedictory ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries and concluded with an impressive showcase of talent and innovation. In the Main Awards category, Qubit Force from GMRIT emerged as the winners, demonstrating exceptional technical excellence and creativity. The 1st Runner-Up position was secured by Wayguard from SRM AP, while Team Spartans, representing SRM AP and Potti Sriramulu Engineering College, were declared the 2nd Runner-Up.
Recognising specialised innovation, the Best Category Awards were presented to teams excelling in key domains. Qubit Explorers from SVU College and SV University of Engineering received the award for the Best Use of Quantum Machine Learning. Kanam from CBIT and VCE, Hyderabad, was honoured for the Best Use of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), while Quantum Insiders from NEC, NBKRIST, and Vasireddy institutions won for the Best Use of Quantum Secure Data Communication.
Further celebrating excellence, the Excellence Awards acknowledged outstanding contributions across various dimensions. Quantum Coders from Potti Sriramulu Engineering College received the Quantum Innovation Excellence Award, while Qubits Rockers from SRM AP were honoured with the Quantum Research Excellence Award. Quant Crew from SRM AP secured the Quantum Industry Impact Award, and Amaravati Avengers, also from SRM AP, were recognised with the Quantum Technical Mastery Award.
In addition, House Stark from SRM AP and Binary Brains from RGUKT were awarded internship opportunities with QRACE & EGREEN QUANTA, recognising their promising performance and potential for future contributions to the quantum technology ecosystem.
The Quantum Computing Conclave (QC²) and National Hackathon concluded on a high note, celebrating innovation, collaboration, and perseverance. By bringing together academia, industry leaders, and aspiring technologists, SRM University-AP has reinforced its commitment to building a robust quantum ecosystem and empowering students to lead in the technologies of the future.
