India’s First Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Over Multi-Core Fibre

In a groundbreaking development, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), in collaboration with Sterlite Technologies Ltd. (STL), has successfully tested India’s first Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) transmission over a 4-core Multi-Core Fibre (MCF). This achievement marks a significant leap forward in India’s efforts to establish a secure and cost-effective national quantum communication network.

Key Highlights

  • First in India: Successful demonstration of QKD over a 4-core Multi-Core Fibre — a national first.
  • Partners: Joint initiative between C-DOT (India’s telecom R&D center under the DoT) and Sterlite Technologies Ltd. (a global optical networking leader).
  • Distance Achieved: QKD transmission tested and sustained over a distance exceeding 100 km.

Core Utilization

  • One core: Dedicated to QKD (quantum signal).
  • Remaining three cores: Used to carry high-speed classical data traffic simultaneously.

Significance of MCF

  • Allows physical separation of quantum and classical signals.
  • Enables simultaneous transmission without interference.
  • Reduces infrastructure and fibre deployment costs.

Other Info

  • Technology Approval: C-DOT’s QKD systems have received approval from the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC).
  • Security and Efficiency: Demonstrates that quantum-secured communication can co-exist with conventional data traffic on a single optical fibre.
  • Public-Private Collaboration: This success reflects the strength of collaboration between public R&D and private enterprise in India’s digital growth.

Organizations Involved

C-DOT (Centre for Development of Telematics)

  • Premier R&D center under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
  • Focuses on indigenous telecom technology.
  • Developed QKD systems approved by TEC.

Sterlite Technologies Ltd. (STL)

  • Global leader in optical fibre, connectivity, and digital networks.
  • Developed indigenously manufactured Multi-Core Fibre.
  • Uses Space Division Multiplexing for ultra-high data capacity.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India’s First Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Over Multi-Core Fibre
Achievement India’s 1st QKD transmission over Multi-Core Fibre (MCF)
Organizations Involved C-DOT & Sterlite Technologies Ltd. (STL)
Fibre Type 4-core Multi-Core Fibre
Transmission Distance Over 100 km
Classical High-Speed Data Channels 3 cores
Benefits Cost-saving, simultaneous QKD and data transmission, secure communication
Technology Approval QKD systems approved by TEC (DoT)

Shivam

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