Quantum Communication

Quantum Communication : Recently, a professor from the IIT Delhi projected that India could achieve satellite-based quantum communication within five years.

o While progress under the National Quantum Mission (NQM) continues, experts stress the need for greater institutional support, funding, and technological advancement to achieve this goal.

• About Quantum Communication: Involves transmitting secure information using principles of quantum mechanics.

  o Uses techniques like Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), quantum teleportation, and dense coding.

  o Supports secure, long-distance communication through methods like free-space optics, quantum repeaters, and decoherence-free subspaces.

  o Strategically important for defence, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure.

  • Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): Core technique using photons to generate encryption keys that cannot be intercepted without detection.

  o One of the most secure but technically complex forms of QKD involves quantum entanglement, where two photons remain connected such that any change to one instantly affects the other.

  • About NQM : Launched in 2023 to advance India’s capabilities in quantum technologies. Part of PM-STIAC (PM-Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council).

  o Key Objectives: Build quantum computers with 50–1000 qubits using superconducting and photonic systems.

  o Enable satellite-based quantum communication across 2000+ km within India and with global partners.

  o Develop precision tools like atomic clocks and magnetometers.