DRDO Inks First High-Value Deep Tech Project Agreement with Zero mK India Pvt Ltd Under TDF Scheme

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has signed its first high-value deep tech agreement under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme with startup Zero mK India Private Limited, based in Alwar, Rajasthan. The agreement was signed in New Delhi on 24th September, 2026 between the Director, TDF, and the company, and focuses on jointly developing a 20 mK dilution refrigerator for quantum applications.

DRDO's First High-Value Agreement Under Rs 500-Crore Corpus

This partnership marks the first big-ticket agreement to be signed under the Rs 500 crore corpus that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had earlier approved specifically for deep-tech and cutting-edge defence projects. Singh praised DRDO, the industry partner, and everyone involved, saying he expects this collaboration to set a strong example for future DRDO-industry partnerships in emerging technology areas. Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh also extended his wishes to the teams working on the project.

Development of 20 mK Dilution Refrigerator for Quantum Applications

A dilution refrigerator is a specialised cryogenic device that can cool systems down to the millikelvin range, an extremely low temperature. This kind of ultra-cold environment is essential for running and testing many quantum computing platforms and related quantum technologies. By developing a 20 mK-class refrigerator indigenously, India moves closer to building the infrastructure needed to support advanced quantum research at home.

How is DRDO's First High-Value Deep Tech Agreement Important for India?

This project directly supports the goals of India's National Quantum Mission and strengthens the country's position in quantum technology, advanced cryogenics, and other strategic technology areas. Since dilution refrigerators are currently mostly imported, developing this capability domestically will help India cut its dependence on foreign cryogenic infrastructure and build a more self-reliant, quantum-ready ecosystem. The project is being guided and supported by the Director of the Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), along with senior DRDO officials from Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems and Cyber Security, and Technology Management divisions.