NATIONAL QUANTUM MISSION (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: National Quantum Mission (NQM) was reached with the launch of the call for pre-proposals for setting up Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) launched by Secretary, Department of Science and Technology.

National Quantum Mission (NQM)

• Aim: To empower Indian scientists in developing indigenous technology, systems, devices, and materials essential for advancing research and development in quantum technology.
• Targets: Develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1,000 physical qubits utilizing various platforms such as superconducting and photonic technology.

oEstablish satellite-based secure quantum communications between ground stations spanning a range of 2,000 kilometers within India.

oEnhance quantum communications security with other countries.

• Comparison with Classical Computing: Similar to how a binary bit serves as the fundamental unit of information in classical computing, a qubit (quantum bit) plays the equivalent role in quantum computing.
• Benefits: To yield widespread benefits in communication, health, finance, energy, drug design, and space applications.
• Thematic Hubs (T-hub): Quantum computing, Quantum communication, Quantum sensing and metrology and Quantum materials and devices.