Quantum Computer For Quantum Jump

Context: Quantum technology has many modern-day applications and India needs to capitalise the technology.

About quantum computers

• Quantum computers are machines based on the laws of quantum physics. Richard Feynman introduced idea of quantum computing in 1980s.
• QCs computes by manipulating electrons and nuclei using electromagnetic radiation from lasers.

Prospects of quantum technology

• QCs promise unprecedented computational speeds not attainable even by the fastest supercomputers available today.
• Quantum technologies include a whole gamut of interrelated technologies: Such as quantum cryptography, quantum sensors, quantum materials, quantum meteorology, etc.
• Wide range of potential applications: Including in drug discovery, logistics and optimisation, new materials, fintech, machine learning and defence.
• Economic potential: This will have a cascading effect of seeding a vibrant quantum start-up ecosystem leading to job-creation and economic growth.
• Prospects for India: Field wide open for innovation and expansion, considering India’s strengths in theoretical and experimental quantum sciences.
  • Leveraging India’s software development strength: India expected to be the largest software developer community in the world by 2024. Imparting necessary training to them will create quantum workforce for itself and the world.

Recent initiatives in quantum domain

• The European organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) to deploy Quantum Computers to power their research.
• India announced Rs.8000 crore National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications.
• Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) has been set up at Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune.

Way Forward

• India to build its own competitive sized QCs in mission mode by pooling its existing academic experts. Even a few QCs initially will showcase India’s potential to the world.
• Investment needs to channelized: Invest to enhance quantum technology skill sets and develop industry ecosystem. Industries and PSU’s must be incentivised to evaluate and work on applications.