NITI Aayog highlights the potential of Quantum Computing

Context

NITI Aayog’s Frontier Tech Hub (NITI-FTH) highlights the capability of quantum computing for economic growth and national security and global competitiveness.

What is Quantum Technology?

• Quantum technology is a rapidly advancing area that leverages the concepts of quantum mechanics to broaden new technology with remarkable abilities.
• Quantum mechanics is the branch of physics that studies the conduct of debris on the quantum stage, whereas classical physics does not apply. 
• Quantum computing uses ‘qubit’ (or quantum bit) as its essential unit.
• This technology exploits the principles of quantum mechanics, which encompass superposition, quantum entanglement, and interference.
• Superposition refers to the capacity of those particles to exist in multiple locations simultaneously.

Domains of Quantum Technologies

• Quantum conversation: It applies to the houses of quantum physics to offer better safety and improved long-distance communications.
• Quantum simulation: It refers to the use of a quantum system to simulate the behavior of some other quantum system. 
• Quantum computation: It is a discipline of computing that makes use of the standards of quantum mechanics to carry out positive calculations more efficiently than classical computer systems.
• Quantum sensing and metrology: It leverages the standards of quantum mechanics to obtain especially unique measurements. 

National Quantum Mission (NQM)

• It was conceptualized by the Prime Minister Science Technology Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) with a complete outlay of Rs 6003.65 Crore for a period of 8 years. 
• The Mission goals to seed, nurture, and scale up medical and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative environment in Quantum Technology (QT). 
• The Mission ambitions to set up 4 Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in domains which includes,
  • Quantum Computing, 
  • Quantum Communication, 
  • Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and 
  • Quantum Materials & Devices. 

Role of Quantum computing in reshaping National Security

• Cybersecurity and Cryptography: The technology could smash conventional encryption strategies, threatening sensitive government and monetary facts. India ought to accelerate its transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC).
• Intelligence Gathering: Quantum computing will enhance intelligence-amassing capabilities, allowing countries to decode encrypted communications swiftly.
• Defense Applications: Quantum-more desirable AI will optimize battlefield logistics, autonomous structures, and missile guidance.
• Geopolitical Power: The document factors out that the dominance of a country in quantum technology will give it an area to shape worldwide technology standards and norms, as a result shaping international policies.

Key Recommendations

• PQC Transition Plan: Involving danger prioritization-primarily based transition and roadmap, expanded POCs, trying out and certification, and changing information approximately the deployments. 
• Early Warning System: Leverage medical intelligence for capacity breakthroughs. 
• Technology Access Agreements: Establish bilateral partnerships for fast adoption, in particular the modalities that provide scalability, together with topology qubit.
• Flexible R&D Investment: Adapt investment priorities based on emerging breakthroughs.

Conclusion

• India’s quantum security method ought to combine technology tracking, studies flexibility, and supply chain safety while leveraging global partnerships and home innovation. 
• A proactive, multi-pronged method will ensure national security remains resilient in quantum technology.

Source: The Indian Express

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Q. “The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (2020)

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