QUANTUM COMPUTING

INTRODUCTION
Quantum Computing is a type of computation that harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics such as superposition, entanglement and interference to perform complex calculations. Unlike classical computers that work on bits (0 or 1), quantum computers use qubits which can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This allows quantum computers to solve certain problems exponentially faster than classical supercomputers.

Quantum mechanics studies the behaviour of matter and energy at atomic and sub‑atomic levels, forming the foundation of quantum computing.

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF QUANTUM COMPUTING
• Superposition
  – Qubits can exist in both 0 and 1 states at the same time.
  – This enables parallel computation.

• Entanglement
  – Two or more qubits become linked in such a way that the state of one instantly affects the other, irrespective of distance.
  – This allows ultra‑fast information correlation.

• Interference
  – Used to amplify correct results and cancel incorrect ones in computations.

QUANTUM COMPUTERS VS CONVENTIONAL SUPERCOMPUTERS
• Classical and supercomputers process information sequentially using bits.
• Supercomputers combine thousands of processors but still analyse combinations one by one.
• Quantum computers process multiple combinations simultaneously.
• Computing power increases exponentially with each added qubit.
• In 2019, Google demonstrated quantum supremacy by solving a problem in 300 seconds that would take classical computers thousands of years.

GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES IN INDIA
• National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications (NMQTA)
  – Announced in Union Budget 2021
  – Allocation: ₹8000 crore
  – Focus areas: Quantum computing, communication, cryptography, materials science.

• Quantum Computing Laboratory
  – Set up by Indian Army in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh
  – Supported by National Security Council Secretariat.

• Quantum Communication Lab
  – Launched by C‑DOT in 2021
  – Supports quantum communication over 100 km optical fibre.

• Institutional Collaborations
  – DIAT and C‑DAC collaboration for quantum computer development.
  – I‑HUB Quantum Technology Foundation (IISER Pune) supported by DST.

• Start‑ups in Quantum Technology
  – QNu Labs (Bangalore)
  – BosonQ (Bhilai)

APPLICATIONS OF QUANTUM COMPUTING
• Machine Learning
  – Faster pattern recognition
  – Improved accuracy in image, voice and handwriting recognition.

• Computational Chemistry
  – Simulation of molecular interactions
  – Development of room‑temperature superconductors
  – Carbon sequestration catalysts
  – Advanced battery chemistry beyond lithium‑ion.

• Drug Discovery
  – Simulation of drug‑protein interactions
  – Reduces trial‑and‑error cost and time.

• Financial Portfolio Optimisation
  – Risk‑return optimisation
  – Faster decision‑making in financial markets.

• Logistics and Scheduling
  – Optimisation of supply chains
  – Traffic and transport management.

• Cyber Security
  – Quantum‑based encryption
  – Early threat detection using quantum machine learning.

SIGNIFICANCE OF NMQTA
• Economic Transformation
  – Supports India’s transition into next‑generation digital economy.

• National Security
  – Secures communications and financial transactions.

• Socio‑Economic Development
  – Enhances productivity and quality of life.

• Employment Generation
  – Creates high‑end research and industrial jobs.

• Technological Self‑Reliance
  – Reduces dependence on foreign technologies.

• Scientific Ecosystem
  – Development of skilled manpower
  – Encourages startups and entrepreneurship.

• Industrial Applications
  – Aerospace, defence, healthcare, agriculture, weather prediction, manufacturing.

CHALLENGES IN QUANTUM COMPUTING
• Error Prone Systems
  – Qubits are highly sensitive to noise and interference.
  – Error correction is complex.

• Cooling Requirements
  – Systems need super‑cooling near absolute zero.
  – High energy consumption and ecological footprint.

• Talent Shortage
  – Limited experts in quantum physics and engineering.

• Import Dependence
  – India lacks domestic manufacturing capability for quantum hardware.

• Policy and Strategy Gaps
  – Lack of clarity between short‑term and long‑term goals.
  – Undefined performance metrics.

• Commercialisation Gap
  – Difficulty in translating research into real‑world applications.

WAY FORWARD
• Strengthen indigenous hardware manufacturing.
• Define clear national quantum roadmap.
• Invest in quantum education and doctoral research.
• Encourage industry‑academia collaboration.
• Focus on applied research aligned with national priorities.
 

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Subject: Science

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