NITI Aayog Calls for Quantum Strategy

NITI Aayog Calls for Quantum Strategy

For Prelims: Quantum Computing, National Quantum Mission, Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), Atomic Clocks, Quantum Communication
For Mains: National Quantum Mission, India's Initiatives in Quantum Computing

Why in News?

A research paper titled “Quantum Computing: National Security Implications & Strategic Preparedness”, released by NITI Aayog's Frontier Tech Hub (NITI-FTH), underscores the critical role of quantum computing in India’s security and economy. It advocates a comprehensive approach to mitigate national security risks arising from quantum advancements.

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing refers to a set of technologies that utilize the principles of quantum mechanics to perform computations that are beyond the capabilities of classical computing. Quantum computers operate using qubits (quantum bits), which behave unpredictably at the atomic level, enabling tasks that classical systems cannot achieve.

Key Highlights of NITI Aayog's Report on Quantum Computing

• Global Quantum Investments: Over 40 billion USD has been pledged by more than 30 countries. China leads with an investment of 15 billion USD, followed by the US and Europe.
• India’s Approach: The National Quantum Mission (NQM) was launched with a budget of Rs 6,003 crore to foster indigenous capabilities and establish India as a global leader in quantum technology.
• Strategic Implications: Quantum technology has dual-use applications in defense and intelligence, including enhanced encryption, improved surveillance, and advanced weaponry, thereby offering nations a technological edge in national security and defense. Economically, it holds the potential to drive innovation and attract investments.

Challenges Identified in the NITI Aayog Report on Quantum Computing

• Lower Funding Compared to Global Peers: India’s NQM budget of ₹6,003 crore (~USD 750 million) is substantially less than the investments by global leaders, restricting India’s ability to develop competitive quantum infrastructure, research, and talent acquisition.
• Weak Domestic Supply Chain: Quantum computing requires specialized components, such as cryogenic systems and high-purity materials, which India lacks in terms of indigenous production capabilities. This results in a heavy reliance on foreign suppliers.
• Limited Industry Participation: Unlike the US and Europe, where tech giants like Google, IBM, and Microsoft lead quantum innovation, India’s quantum ecosystem is mainly driven by academia. The lack of private sector investment and venture capital hinders scalability and commercialization.
• Cybersecurity Risks: Quantum computers will eventually be able to break existing encryption standards, rendering current cybersecurity frameworks obsolete. This poses a significant risk to sensitive government, military, financial, and personal data, potentially destabilizing sectors like online banking, digital payments, and secure communications.
• Intelligence and Espionage Risks: Quantum technology could significantly enhance signals intelligence (SIGINT), allowing nations to decrypt intercepted communications at an unprecedented scale, thereby exposing sensitive information like diplomatic cables, military strategies, and classified intelligence. Countries with quantum decryption capabilities will gain a strategic advantage in intelligence and cyber warfare.

The National Quantum Mission (NQM)

About: The Union Cabinet approved the NQM on 19th April 2023 for the period from 2023-24 to 2030-31. The mission aims to foster scientific and industrial R&D, creating a vibrant ecosystem in quantum technology.

Key Objectives:

• Quantum Computers: Develop intermediate-scale quantum computers (50-1000 qubits) within 8 years using superconducting and photonic technologies.
• Secure Communications: Enable satellite-based secure quantum communication over 2000 km within India and with other nations.
• Quantum Sensing and Metrology: Develop high-sensitivity magnetometers and atomic clocks for precision timing, communication, and navigation.
• Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs): Establish four T-hubs in leading academic and R&D institutes for quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials.

Recommendations Suggested by NITI Aayog on Quantum Computing

• Enhancing National Security Policy: Establish a task force to continuously track global quantum advancements and evaluate potential threats. Create an early warning system to mitigate emerging quantum risks.
• Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Transition Plan: Implement a strategy to secure government, financial, and industrial data from future quantum cyberattacks.
• Boosting R&D: Increase funding for R&D to accelerate quantum startups and support domestic hardware development. Foster private sector involvement to bridge the gap between academia and industry for faster commercialization.
• Strengthening Domestic Supply Chain: Build a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem for quantum hardware components like cryogenic systems, high-purity materials, and lasers. This would reduce dependence on foreign imports and ensure the production of quantum chips and hardware.
• Expanding Global Partnerships: Forge bilateral agreements with quantum-leading nations such as the US, EU, and Japan to gain access to advanced research, hardware, and expertise. Advocate for relaxed export controls on critical quantum components to ensure uninterrupted access to necessary technologies.

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Drishti Mains Question:
Q. Quantum technology is set to reshape global security and economic landscapes. Discuss the security challenges posed by quantum computing and suggest measures India should take to safeguard its national interests.

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UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims:
Q. Which one of the following is the context in which the term "qubit" is mentioned?
(a) Cloud Services
(b) Quantum Computing
(c) Visible Light Communication Technologies
(d) Wireless Communication Technologies

Ans: (b)

Mains:
“The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (2020)

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