The initiative builds on CSIR-CGCRI’s existing expertise in glass, ceramics, optical fibre and photonics.
The West Bengal government has launched an Emerging Quantum and Semiconductor Technologies (EQST) section at CSIR-Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute (CSIR-CGCRI), Kolkata, as it seeks to attract investments in next-generation technologies.
West Bengal Minister-in-Charge of Information Technology & Electronics and Science & Technology Kalyan Chakraborti launched the section on Monday during the inauguration of the two-day national conference on ‘Quantum and Semiconductor Technologies: Innovations for the Future (CQST-2026)’.
Chakraborti said India cannot remain a bystander as countries increase investments in quantum and semiconductor technologies, which are expected to influence the economy, national security and everyday life.
He highlighted Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Assam and Karnataka as states that have used policy measures, infrastructure and partnerships with the Centre to attract semiconductor investments. He said West Bengal, with its scientific and research ecosystem, also has the potential to become a destination for such investments.
The state government plans to work with CSIR-CGCRI, the Science and Technology Department and other departments to develop mechanisms for facilitating quantum and semiconductor investments. Chakraborti also proposed linking the EQST section with thematic hubs under the National Quantum Mission.
The minister called for greater collaboration between universities and industry to develop research, technology and skill-development programmes in quantum and semiconductor technologies. He also pointed to state budget initiatives, including a Science and Technology Talent Attraction Fund, Incubation Fund and Venture Capital Fund, aimed at supporting deep-tech startups.
According to officials, the new EQST section will focus on superconducting quantum platforms, two-dimensional quantum materials, single-electron transistors and advanced photonics for quantum devices. The initiative builds on CSIR-CGCRI’s existing expertise in glass, ceramics, optical fibre and photonics.
Chakraborti said the new section could provide an institutional anchor for quantum and semiconductor research in West Bengal, alongside institutions such as IACS, S N Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Indian Statistical Institute, IIT Kharagpur, IIEST-Shibpur and NIT Durgapur.
