Challenges in implementing National Quantum Mission
Kartavya Desk Staff
Syllabus: Science and Technology: Quantum computing
Context: A new report, surveying the existing capabilities of India in the field of Quantum technology, has found that countries like China and the United States have a huge head start over India.
What is Quantum Computing?
Quantum computing is a new way of computing that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations. In traditional computing, data is processed using bits, which are either a 0 or a 1. But in quantum computing, the data is processed using quantum bits or qubits, which can be both a 0 and a 1 at the same time. This property of qubits is called superposition, which allows for multiple calculations to be performed simultaneously, making quantum computing exponentially faster than traditional computing for certain types of problems.
Applications of Quantum Technology:
• Higher Problem-solving Capabilities: Solves complex problems in cryptography, optimization, materials science, and drug discovery.
• Enhanced AI Models: Improves machine learning algorithms for more efficient and accurate AI applications.
• Optimization: Optimizes complex processes like supply-chain management and financial portfolio optimization.
• Secure Communication: Enables ultrasecure communication with quantum encryption, preventing hackers from intercepting information.
• New Medicines: Simulates complex molecular interactions to discover and optimize new drugs.
What is the National Quantum Mission?
The National Quantum Mission, launched in 2023 with a budget of over Rs. 6,003 crore for 2023-2031, aims to bolster India’s capabilities in this cutting-edge field.
Importance of National Quantum Mission
Significance | Details
Economic Growth and Job Creation | Expected to contribute $280-310 billion to the economy by 2030 and spur job creation in research, development, and manufacturing of quantum technologies.
Boost to Industries | Enhances the industrial ecosystem across sectors like aerospace, weather prediction, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, health, agriculture, and education.
Solving difficult Problems | Aids in finding solutions for issues like clean energy and affordable healthcare.
Improvement of Security Infrastructure | Secures communication and financial transactions through Quantum Key Distribution.
Complement Socio-economic Development | Supports initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, and Sustainable Development Goals.
Challenges for India in Implementing the National Quantum Mission:
• Funding Disparity: India’s investment of $0.75 billion pales in comparison to China’s $15 billion and the US’s nearly $4 billion.
• Research Output: India lags behind in publishing quantum research papers. Between 2000 and 2018, Indian researchers published 1,711 papers, compared to 12,110 in China and 13,489 in the US.
• Patent Registrations: Indian researchers registered only 339 quantum-related patents between 2015 and 2020, while China registered 23,335 and the US 8,935.
• Talent Pool: In 2018, India had 253 researchers per million people, roughly 11% of the researcher density of Italy.
• Technological Dependence: India is still heavily reliant on developed countries for cutting-edge technology in the field of quantum technology.
• Few Firms in Tech Manufacturing: Only about 3% of deep tech start-ups in India are involved in manufacturing or materials related to quantum technologies.
Way forward:
• Increase funding for quantum R&D.
• Enhance research output through grants and collaborations.
• Boost patent activity with incentives and IP protection.
• Develop talent through scholarships and dedicated programs.
• Foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government.
• Prioritize key domains: computing, communications, sensors, and materials.
• Engage public-private partnerships for scaling quantum technologies.
• Ensure global competitiveness by leading in quantum research areas.
Insta Links:
Quantum Computing
Mains Links:
• What is quantum computing? Explain its applications and steps taken by India to promote quantum technologies in the country. (250 words)
Tags: National Quantum Mission, GS3, Science and Technology
Key Phrases: National Quantum Mission,