National Quantum Mission (Science and Technology)
National Quantum Mission (Science and Technology)
Why In News:
National Quantum Mission's mandate was recently highlighted to build capability in quantum computing, communication, and sensing, part of India's push for strategic technology self-reliance.
About the National Quantum Mission (NQM)
About: The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a flagship initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) for the period 2023–24 to 2030–31.
Objective: The mission seeks to seed, nurture, and scale up research and development in quantum technologies to drive innovation-led economic growth and develop indigenous technological capabilities.
Key Focus Areas:
Quantum Computing: Development of intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50–1,000 physical qubits over the next 8 years.
Quantum Communication: Creation of secure satellite-based communication links (up to 2,000 km within India) and long-distance inter-city Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) networks.
Quantum Sensing & Metrology: Development of high-precision sensors, including magnetometers and atomic clocks, for applications in navigation, defence, and communications.
Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs): Four hubs are to be set up in premier institutes covering Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices.
Key Applications
Quantum Computing: Enables breakthroughs in cyber security, research and innovation, and strategic technology.
Quantum Communication: Supports secure satellite- and fibre-based quantum key distribution networks.
Quantum Sensors: Enable precision sensing applications in navigation, healthcare, and strategic domains.
Key Facts for Prelims
Qubit: The basic unit of quantum information; unlike a classical bit, a qubit can exist in superposition of 0 and 1 simultaneously.
Key quantum phenomena:
Superposition, entanglement, and quantum interference underlie quantum computing's speed advantage.
Superposition: A quantum system can exist in multiple states simultaneously until measured.
Entanglement: Two particles become correlated such that the state of one instantly affects the other, regardless of distance.
Quantum Interference: Probability amplitudes combine (constructively/destructively) to enhance correct outcomes and suppress wrong ones.
Infrastructure base: India's PARAM Quantum supercomputers at IITs and IISc form the foundational computing infrastructure.