18 July,2026 10:40 PM IST | Pune | Archana Dahiwal
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis speaks at the `Interaction with Stakeholders for Formation of the Global Manufacturing Hub and Frontier Tech Institute` programme held at Savitribai Phule Pune University. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Maharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday stressed the need to build a strong and inclusive ecosystem to enable India to rapidly adapt to the transformative advances in quantum computing and deep technologies, stating that these innovations are reshaping the global technological landscape at an unprecedented pace.
He was speaking at the 'Interaction with Stakeholders for Formation of the Global Manufacturing Hub and Frontier Tech Institute' programme held at Savitribai Phule Pune University.
The event brought together experts from academia, industry, defence, research institutions, and technology organisations to discuss opportunities in quantum computing, frontier technologies, manufacturing, and skill development.
Among those present were Savitribai Phule Pune University Vice-Chancellor Dr Suresh Gosavi, Deepak Karanjikar from Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA), Alicon Castalloy's Harsh Gune, Lt Gen Rajendra Nimbhorkar, Actin Technology's Vikas Mahajan, Brig Sachin Kalia, Strategic Research and Growth Foundation's Varun Khandare, Symbiosis Skills and Professional University Pro Vice-Chancellor Dr Swati Mujumdar, former Vice-Chancellor Dr Nitin Karmalkar, Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skill University Vice-Chancellor Dr Apoorva Palkar, Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture (MCCIA) Managing Director Prashant Girbane, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research's (IISER) Prasanjit Fadnavis, University Registrar Dr Prafull Pawar, and former Tata Steel Vice-President CR Kulkarni.
Fadnavis said the global market for quantum computing and deep technologies was estimated at USD 2-3 trillion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 16 trillion within the next five years, making it one of the fastest-growing technological revolutions in human history.
"India must become an active participant in this transformation rather than remain a spectator," he said.
CM Fadnavis noted that although India ranks 36th in the United Nations Frontier Technology Index, it is recognised among the countries performing beyond expectations. He said India has made significant progress in the sector over the past few years, but efforts remain fragmented and need institutional integration to maximise their impact.
Describing artificial intelligence (AI), silicon technologies, and quantum computing as game-changing innovations, Fadnavis said they would influence every sector of the economy. He warned that without a strong ecosystem, India risks falling behind in global competition. He particularly highlighted the challenges faced by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which often lack access to funding, advanced technologies, and skilled manpower.
To address these gaps, CM Fadnavis called for the development of accessible digital platforms, shared infrastructure, and a highly skilled workforce. He also underlined the need to establish a dedicated institution focused on frontier technologies to help transform Maharashtra into a global manufacturing hub.
He said the state's initiatives should align with the Central Government's quantum computing programmes. The Maharashtra CM also praised MITRA for its work in the sector and stressed the importance of institutional integration of policies and organisations to create an effective framework for smart manufacturing and deep-tech development.
CM Fadnavis announced that the Maharashtra government is prepared to invest in new digital infrastructure and technology platforms. Through MITRA, the state will launch a programme to train quantum computing instructors, with the goal of training at least 5,000 professionals over the next two to three years.
He further said the initiative would help consolidate ongoing efforts and strengthen institutional collaboration. Referring to the upcoming Innovation City project in Mumbai, being developed in partnership with the Tata Group, Fadnavis said the proposed Frontier Tech Institute and Innovation City complement each other and can work in close coordination to accelerate Maharashtra's technological leadership.
