Last few decades have seen significant progress in the field of quantum information with contributions from researchers across the world. Indian scientists have played an important role in this development of the field. Further, to leverage the existing expertise in the field, the Indian Government has recently launched the National Quantum Mission (NQM). This thematic issue entitled, "Quantum Information in India" is planned to showcase the outstanding research activities performed by the Indian research groups and also activities planned under NQM in the broad area of quantum information.

Topics include, but are not limited to:

-Quantum Computing

-Quantum Communication Including Quantum Cryptography

-Quantum Sensing

-Quantum Information Theory

-Quantum Networks

- Quantum Materials

-Quantum Foundations

-History of Quantum Information related activities in India

Each submission will undergo the usual peer review process as per the journal policy. However, in addition to the usual format, the published manuscript will also contain a short description of the research group(s) contributing to the article. The guest editors will review this part to facilitate potential collaboration.

Quantum technologies are advancing at an unprecedented pace, with applications spanning fundamental research to practical implementation across diverse sectors. A critical and timely consideration is the dual-use nature of these technologies, which serve both civilian and military purposes. While quantum technologies promise to revolutionize areas such as communication, sensing, computing, and cryptography, they also raise significant ethical, strategic, and policy challenges due to their dual-use potential. At the same time, the term “dual-use” is not clearly defined. Technology development often serves both civilian and non-civilian purposes. This can be driven from the civilian innovation landscape, turning into applications in the non-civilian domain - or vice versa.

This special collection explores the development, deployment, and implications of dual-use quantum technologies, focusing on the interplay between technology development, innovation policy, and strategic considerations. The collection aims to provide concrete and timely examples of the various aspects of dual-use R&D in the fields of quantum technology.

Submissions are welcome in the following areas:

●Technology Development with Dual-Use Applications: Contributions may include advancements in quantum computing and simulation, innovations in quantum communications and quantum-based encryption (excluding post-quantum cryptography), and breakthroughs in quantum sensing technologies. Authors are encouraged to highlight the stakeholders involved in developing technologies (civilian or non-civilian, or both) and reflect on the (current / preferred) innovation pathways as the technology matures.

●Defence Needs: Relevant topics include quantum’s potential to enhance defence capabilities, the procurement mechanisms and challenges involved in real-world deployment, innovation pathways that transition technologies between civilian and defence domains, and the development of quantum technology countermeasures.

●Quantum Industry Emergence: We welcome studies on the start-up (dual-use) ecosystem and funding mechanisms, intellectual property management in the defense sector, as well as discussions on technology readiness levels (TRL), deployment readiness, and scalability.

●Strategic Implications: Submissions may explore the impact of quantum technologies on global supply chains, international security and NATO’s quantum strategy, the EU’s defense posture, as well as the role of the UN and global governance in the quantum technological race.

●Policy and Governance: Topics can also examine the regulatory, legal, and ethical dimensions of dual-use technologies, as well as issues related to export controls, arms control, and safeguarding against misuse.

This topical collection aims to serve as a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, connecting researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to address the opportunities, challenges, and strategic importance of dual-use quantum technologies in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Submission Information: Authors should select the appropriate Collection “Dual-Use Quantum Technologies” under the “Details” tab during the submission stage. Manuscripts will be assessed, reviewed, and published on a rolling basis. The editors are committed to responsible research practices, including our editorial policy on Dual Use Research of Concern, and reserve the right to withhold a manuscript from peer review if they believe that the article includes sensitive information. This will be done in consultation with the author(s).

This collection supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure