On Wednesday, the National Quantum Mission (NQM) received approval from the Union Cabinet, which is presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The NQM is expected to cost Rs 6,003 crore over eight years (2023–2030).
Union Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitender Singh announced the government’s choice, claiming it will provide India “a quantum jump” in the area.
India will join a select group of six nations that are studying quantum technology, including the US, Canada, China, France, Austria, and Finland.
According to a story in India Today, quantum technology is a discipline of physics and engineering that applies the concepts of quantum mechanics, a branch of physics that describes the behavior of matter and energy at a tiny scale, to the creation of new technologies.
A unique level of encryption security is provided by quantum technology, which encompasses quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum sensing, rendering quantum communication impenetrable to hacking.
Four theme hubs will be formed in various universities across India as part of the NQM, which will be overseen by the Department of Science and Technology and a mission director to promote research and development in the area.
According to a PIB Cabinet announcement, the goal is to construct intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50–1000 physical qubits in 8 years using a variety of platforms, including superconducting and photonic technologies.
Inter-city quantum key distribution across 2000 km, long-distance secure quantum communications with other nations, and multi-node satellite-based secure quantum communications between ground stations within India are all possible. One of the mission’s deliverables is a quantum network with quantum memories.
It will aid in the development of highly sensitive atomic clocks for precise time, communication, and navigation, as well as atomic magnetometers.
Additionally, it will aid in the design and synthesis of quantum materials for the production of quantum devices, such as superconductors, innovative semiconductor structures, and topological materials.
For applications in quantum communications, sensing, and metrological measurements, single photon sources and detectors, as well as entangled photon sources, will be developed.
The government will establish a Mission Secretariat with a governing council to direct the effort, with scientists from the quantum sector serving as the leadership. The Mission Technology Research Council will serve as the governing body’s scientific advisory body.
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(Source: Education Bytes)
