Quantum computing (QC) is a rapidly evolving cutting-edge technology. It has the ability to significantly accelerate computation speeds. In late 2019, Google claimed that its Sycamore quantum computer solved an extremely complicated problem in just 200 seconds. However, if the same problem were solved with today’s fastest supercomputer, it would have taken 10000 years. This gives you an idea of how quick quantum computers can be. This exponentially fast processing capacity of quantum computers is made feasible by important quantum mechanics principles such as superposition and quantum entanglement. As we all know, particles exhibit distinct behavior at the atomic level, which endows them with unique characteristics. These characteristics can be used in digital processing.
In classical computing, data processing is done through logical operations, which are represented in the form of 0s and 1s. These are called bits. In quantum computing, we have subatomic particles called quantum bits, or qubits. These qubits are responsible to perform logical operations in QC. The magic lies here because quantum mechanical principles explain that qubits can be found in many states simultaneously. This property of qubits allows quantum computers to solve general calculations as well as very complex calculations easily and very quickly. Besides, it is also capable of solving many problems simultaneously, which is not possible through classical computing. This makes it an excellent choice for solving problems that would otherwise take years to solve using existing technology.
Applications of quantum computing include simulating molecular structures, scanning vast datasets, and optimizing complicated systems-areas where traditional computing is having difficulty. It has the capability to propose such solutions to complex problems that will astound anyone and significantly change our present perceptions of science and technology. It has the potential to revolutionize a number of industries, including machine learning, artificial intelligence, cryptography, and drug discovery.
The sheer speed and efficiency of quantum computers constitute a big step forward, attracting a lot of attention and investment. Globally, governments of many countries are arranging resources for the rapid development of quantum computing. Additionally, major technology companies, including IBM, Google, and Microsoft, are collaborating with several academic institutions to develop the hardware and software needed for quantum computing. The Government of India has also taken several initiatives to encourage research, establish infrastructure and nurture talent in quantum computing, enabling the country to compete on the world stage. It is obvious that QC has enormous potential to impact the future of technology in India and beyond.
India has established its dominance in the fields of information technology, software development, and digital innovation across the world. India is seeing remarkable growth in its IT industry. In addition, the number of startups in our country is continuously expanding. In this digital era, India has made major technological advances. The quality of our technical education is acknowledged globally. To retain its pace, India must leverage upcoming technologies such as quantum computing.
India is home to talented scientists, engineers, and tech entrepreneurs. Indian technologists, scientists, and engineers are providing their services in countries all over the world, not only providing services but also occupying high positions in big companies. A great number of Indian scientists are demonstrating their expertise in famous laboratories throughout the world. In the area of innovation, Indian businesses are likewise in the forefront.
To develop indigenous technologies, various innovation and research activities are taking place in India. All this is vital to accelerate economic growth and further improve India’s position on the global stage. To keep pace with the world, it is very important to have a hold on the rapidly developing technologies. Since India’s IT infrastructure is very good, India can make significant progress in the field of quantum computing.
This cutting-edge technology has the potential to bring revolutionary changes in the fields of information technology, healthcare, finance, and defense. India can improve its technical landscape by implementing this technology. It can also provide a competitive advantage in the global technology business.
Quantum Computing: Key Beneficiary Sectors
With the development of quantum computing, revolutionary changes will be seen in various industries around the world. This technology can contribute significantly to strengthening the economic growth of a country. This powerful technology has the potential to transform many sectors. The list of businesses that can benefit from quantum computing is long. Let’s talk about some of the major sectors in India that can benefit from quantum computing:
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
The new drug and vaccine development process can be accelerated using quantum computers. It can speed up the simulation process of molecular structures at the atomic level, enabling faster drug discovery. It will considerably shorten the time required to predict protein 3D structure and genome sequencing. This might be useful for monitoring disease outbreaks. Life-threatening diseases like cancer and rapidly developing genetic abnormalities can be avoided. Indian pharmaceutical companies can quickly develop and launch life-saving medications with the use of quantum computing. It will also be possible to provide personalized medicine and the best treatment for each individual using quantum algorithms.
Agriculture
A large part of the Indian population is engaged in agriculture. Therefore, we can confidently say that farmers are the backbone of the Indian economy, however, they face many issues and challenges in their work. Such challenges can be mitigated by the application of quantum computing. In fact, quantum computing could play an important role in resource allocation, crop management, and weather prediction models, among others. In this way, the use of quantum algorithms can assist farmers in making decisions such as planting, harvesting and irrigation, etc. thereby increasing production and reducing wastage of resources. Furthermore, quantum simulation can also be usefully employed to improve soil and environmental conditions, which will assist farmers in increasing their production and solving problems arising from climate change.
Finance and Banking
As we know, quantum computers can run complex simulations at unprecedented speed, process increasingly complex data, identify patterns and anomalies in datasets, and process complex calculations faster. Because of all these properties, the use of quantum computers can bring revolutionary changes in the finance and banking sector. With the help of quantum computing, risk-analysis capabilities can be enhanced, leading to better investment and business decisions.
With the use of quantum computing, compliance processes in the banking system can be better streamlined. Additionally, their ability to process data at high speed will ensure regulatory compliance in less time and using fewer resources. Its use will enable identification of risk-free optimal investment strategies, and improve portfolio optimization and asset management by achieving maximum returns.
Hack-free transactions and data privacy related to finance can be ensured through quantum cryptography and encryption technologies. Quantum computer’s ability to process data quickly and efficiently will revolutionize data management in financial services.
Cybersecurity
Quantum computing has tremendous transformational potential and presents interesting prospects to improve cybersecurity. Using quantum computing, nearly unhackable encryption methods such as quantum key distribution (QKD) can be devised. It can secure communications using quantum cryptography. This system can identify and thwart efforts to breach encryption in real time. Quantum computers are able to enhance threat intelligence and predictive capabilities because they can detect malicious activities and their subtle patterns. This is made possible by quantum computing-powered artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) systems. It can respond to security problems in real time, which is critical for mitigating the harm caused by cyberattacks.
Emerging technologies sometimes pose some threats to the existing ones. It has the ability to break all the widely used classical computing encryption algorithms, such as AES, RSA, and ECC. With the development of quantum computing, this threat will become more and more significant. Hackers can gain an advantage once encryption is compromised. They will have easy access to crucial information. That includes anything such as confidential business records, bank accounts, transaction details, etc. To overcome this threat, work should also be done on developing quantum-safe encryption methods.
Defence
Quantum computing has a lot to offer for the defense industry. This can help in developing cutting-edge military applications for future challenges. It has the capability to design devices that can easily detect submarines and stealth aircrafts.
This could help develop a reliable inertial navigation system that can be used without GPS. Another important area for the military is communications channels, which are often targeted by adversaries.
Quantum sensors can be used to design compact, wideband radio-frequency receivers. For safe and secure communications, quantum encryption can protect sensitive information from being intercepted.
The next challenge is to identify and neutralize potential threats from aerial route. Radar plays an important role in this. Quantum radar can provide various benefits, such as high noise resistance, stealthiness, and potential target detection.
To secure the country, the military is often required to conduct intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. In this area, quantum imaging systems could become valuable assets. Using this system, the above operations can be carried out day and night in any weather.
This could help develop instruments that can detect extremely weak signals emanating from distant objects. Therefore, this device can serve as an effective early warning and sensing tool. These imaging systems can assist pilots in landing in dusty, hazy, or smoky environments.
Devices such as quantum magnetometers can easily detect mines, IEDs, submarines, camouflaged vehicles, etc. They can also serve as an alternative method of underwater navigation systems.
Quantum gravimeters could be a good tool for detecting caves, tunnels, bunkers, research facilities, or underground missile bases. In the development of advanced combat aircraft, quantum computing can suggest better aerodynamic designs through faster simulations. This is only a small fraction of the broader picture; the possibilities are endless.
Weather Forecasting and Climate Research
Every year, several natural phenomena occur in various parts of India, such as storms, high heat, extreme cold, tornadoes, heavy rainfall, and drought, causing a lot of problems for locals and occasionally causing property damage. Due to these environmental incidents, sometimes natural disasters also occur in which many people lose their lives. If extreme weather can be predicted with accuracy, better preparations can be made to avoid problems caused by weather events. If the capabilities of quantum computing are used to study climate change and weather forecasting, we can get better results.
Quantum computers can produce accurate results because they can process large datasets and run complex simulations. This computing system significantly reduces the time required for simulation and data processing. Because of the high complexity and unpredictability of atmospheric and oceanic systems, reliable weather forecasting is challenging with existing technologies. Using quantum computers, collective forecasts can be made, which can greatly reduce uncertainty in weather forecasting and achieve better possible outcomes. Additionally, quantum computers can help decision-makers make more informed decisions about disaster response and disaster management in the event of any natural disaster.
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Quantum computers will enable AI systems to learn faster and be better prepared for real-world challenges by creating powerful simulation environments. The capacity of quantum computing to process massive datasets quickly can dramatically speed up AI and machine learning activities like data mining, pattern recognition, and sophisticated simulations.
Using quantum computing, new and more efficient algorithms for AI and ML can be developed that can solve complex problems much faster. As a result, quicker and more accurate decisions can be taken depending on the situation. Many AI and ML applications are focused on solving optimization issues, which can be improved with quantum computing.
By combining these two technologies, resource allocation, recommendation systems and predictive models can be made even better. This integration has the potential to transform several industries, including healthcare, banking, transportation, and scientific research. Quantum AI systems may be used to develop better autonomous vehicles, enhance traffic management, improve public safety, predict energy consumption, boost energy efficiency, and accomplish many other such jobs with ease.
Challenges in Quantum Computing Adoption in India
Quantum computing is being seen as a next-generation technology which can bring revolutionary changes in many industries. However, there are several barriers to its implementation, particularly in nations that are still developing their quantum ecosystems. There are some significant hurdles that need to be overcome before the benefits of quantum computing can be fully exploited.
Research and Development
Qubits are fragile by nature; even small vibrations and temperature fluctuations make them unstable, resulting in the loss of all the stored data. Making qubits stable is a big challenge. Scientists are working to overcome this challenge, and they have had some success as well. Without conquering this challenge, the scaleability issue of quantum computers will remain a distant dream.
Individual qubits cannot maintain their quantum state (coherence) for long, so quantum gate operations have to be very fast to make complex calculations possible. As the number of qubits increases in a quantum computing system, controlling individual qubits becomes very complex. Due to the nature of qubits, quantum systems become susceptible to noise and disruptions that lead to errors in calculations. Therefore, for its adoption, it is necessary to develop effective error correction methods.
Apart from all these, other related challenges need to be overcome, and this is possible only through the establishment of a robust research and development (R&D) ecosystem. A lot of research on quantum computing is being done in countries like the US and China as they have a strong R&D ecosystem for it. In order to develop Indigenous technologies and solutions, we also need to build a strong research and development ecosystem for quantum computing. The Government of India is making efforts in this regard.
Quantum Infrastructure
Developing hardware for quantum computing is also a big challenge because quantum processors can work well only at very low temperatures. This temperature is around absolute zero. Besides, they are also highly sensitive to environmental disturbances. It will cost a lot of money to build such infrastructure. After constructing this advanced infrastructure, its maintenance is likewise highly expensive. Therefore, the cost of quantum computing technology is still high, and working with quantum systems still requires a certain level of skill. Any growing economy will have to think twice before spending a large portion of its GDP on this. Considering the importance of this technology, India will have to spend money to develop infrastructure so that India is not left behind in this race. Recognizing the future possibilities of this technology, the Government of India is also taking necessary steps in this regard.
Skilled Workforce
Quantum computing is a complex subject that requires multidisciplinary experts in its research and development. Presently, there are very few quantum-skilled professionals available in the quantum computing field. There is a dire need for a quantum-skilled talent pool to swiftly progress in this field. This significant talent gap in quantum technology could hinder the development of crucial quantum use cases. This might interrupt or delay the transition of this remarkable technology from the lab to the market.
The world as a whole, not just India, is struggling with a shortage of quantum computing specialists. To address this issue, a huge workforce specialized in quantum computing is required. To do this, quantum computing courses should be offered, and students should be encouraged to enroll. There is a need to increase awareness about this subject even at the school level so that children get attracted towards it.
Ethical and Security Concerns
The encryption techniques currently being used to protect sensitive information can be easily breached through quantum computing, which is a major threat to privacy. This risk will persist until it is universally embraced by all nations. In such a case, all networks will be protected by quantum encryption; until then, we need to keep researching robust, quantum-safe encryption algorithms.
Academia-Industry Collaboration
In developed countries, there is strong collaboration between academia and industry, which helps new technologies to flourish. Along with fundamental research, educational institutions also do research as per the needs of the industries, due to which industries flourish with the use of new and advanced technologies. There is a need for such collaboration between educational institutions and industries in India as well.
This academic-industry partnership concept is not new to India, but this collaboration is mainly limited to a few premier institutions (like IISc, IITs, etc.) and industries. Small technical institutes and private universities also need to be a part of this race so that the talent pool will increase and application-oriented research will also get a boost. This is crucial in the realm of quantum computing since its development will need a significant amount of money and qualified personnel.
Slow Adoption in Industry
Worldwide, quantum computing is still in its early phases of development. Many commercial organizations are unaware of its potential applications. They are unable to see how this new technology can benefit their business, thus they are avoiding investment. Many business houses are in a wait-and-watch mode, wanting to see how this technology evolves before investing. They want to see its practical uses become more entrenched. Following the development of quantum computing, it must leave an imprint on practically every possible domain. Therefore, Indian businesses must step up and invest in this technology, as well as collaborate with the government, to accelerate its development.
International Dependence
India has made a lot of progress in the field of science and technology. In recent times, India has grown many technologies in-house. Besides, many scientific equipment which were procured from foreign countries in the past have also started being made with indigenous technologies. The Government’s Make in India initiative has also encouraged in-house development of advanced technologies and sophisticated equipment. But the irony is that India is still dependent on other countries for many advanced technologies.
We have to reduce our dependence on foreign countries for technology. In order to do this, we will need to enhance both our research capabilities as well as manufacturing capabilities. If we have to develop quantum computing applications indigenously, we have to reduce our dependence on foreign countries for R&D as well as technology.
India's Efforts in Quantum Computing
India is investing extensively in research, development and exploitation of sophisticated quantum technologies. Quantum computing is a cutting-edge technology of the future whose impact will be felt in almost every field. Many countries have invested heavily in developing this technology and India is also trying to stand in the category of those countries. For this, India had launched a new mission in the Union Budget 2020-21 named National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications (NMQTA) on which it is proposed to spend ₹8,000 crore. It is a 5-year project which was to be implemented by the Department of Science and Technology.
The Union Cabinet on 19 April 2023 approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) on which Rs 6003.65 crore will be spent. It is a planned and time bound project which started in 2023 and will continue till 2031. During this period, many objectives have been targeted to be achieved in a planned manner. One of the objectives of the mission is to develop an intermediate-scale quantum computer with 50-1000 physical qubits within the next 8 years. This computer can be based on any type of qubit such as photonic, superconducting, etc. Apart from this, other objectives of this mission are: To establish satellite-based secure quantum communication between ground stations located at a distance of 2000 km within India. To develop long-distance secure quantum communication systems with other countries. To build an inter-city quantum key distribution system between cities located at least 2000 km apart. To develop multi-node quantum networks with quantum memories.
Through this mission, India has joined the ranks of countries having their own dedicated quantum mission. Prior to India, the only countries with dedicated quantum missions were America, Canada, France, Finland, China, and Australia.
In addition to developing resources and infrastructure, a huge pool of qualified quantum technology professionals will be required. Efforts have been started for this also. IISc Bangalore launched its Quantum Technology Initiative (IQTI) in 2020 to conduct research and development in quantum technologies. Its objective was to create a multi-disciplinary research framework by creating coordination between all the concerned departments. In 2022, IIT Madras launched an advanced course in quantum computing. IIT Madras has collaborated with IBM to improve skill development and research in the realm of quantum computing. This collaboration allows IIT Madras scientists and researchers to have cloud-based access to IBM’s powerful quantum computing services. Currently, several IITs, IIITs, IISERs, TIFR Mumbai, RRI Bengaluru, and HRI Prayagraj are actively running teaching and research programs in quantum computing.
Many entrepreneurs are also entering the quantum computing sector, as the government is not only promoting it but also providing support for its development. Many Indian startups have now joined the race to discover and develop this field. Some of the major ones are as follows: QNu Labs, Qbit Labs, QpiSemi, TAQBit, QpiAI, BosonQ Psi, Bloq Quantum, SecureMachines, QpiAI Explorer, QDIT LABS, etc.
The Indian government is trying to encourage public-private partnerships for the development of quantum computing. For this, efforts are being made to establish supercomputing and quantum computing hubs. The government can allocate up to Rs 10,000 crore for this entire project. Under the National Quantum Mission (NQM), Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) have been established at IISc Bangalore, IIT Madras, IIT Bombay and IIT Delhi. Apart from these, many other institutions are also involved in the functioning of these T-Hubs. The government is working with IT giants like Wipro, TCS, and others to develop the software needed for quantum technologies under NQM.
Organizations such as DRDO and ISRO have past expertise in transforming research and development into products. These institutes are focusing on quantum communication technology, such as encryption and decryption, as well as applications in secure communication and quantum technologies such as sensors and detectors. Recently, DRDO and ISRO have successfully experimented with Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in their respective fields.
India is also working on several international collaborations to accelerate its quantum computing development programme. Overseas partnerships are helping Indian researchers gain access to cutting-edge quantum technology and expertise. The Government of India is also awarding scholarships and grants to stimulate education and innovation in quantum science and technology.
Conclusion
When quantum computing becomes more widely available, its impact will be far greater than any other technology, perhaps more than anyone can currently imagine. As its development progresses with time, new areas of applications will emerge. One can imagine that quantum computing could become the pivot of India’s development in the future. Its influence will be felt in defence, banking, healthcare, and all growing areas of technology. Quantum computing promises to solve very complex problems with higher speeds, which will ultimately lead to greater effectiveness, better security, and greater innovation across many industries.
The commitment of the Government of India, through initiatives such as the National Quantum Mission, reflects the country’s will to lead the world in this field. The maximum potential of quantum computing can be exploited only when coordinated efforts are made. Along with the government, technical institutions, corporate organizations, and startups must work together to produce indigenous technology. To stay ahead of the competition, all sectors must understand the potential of this technology and devise methods to incorporate it into their operations. They must spend in research in order to reap the benefits in the future. They can collaborate with the government, academic institutes, quantum startups, and other major players in the quantum computing sector.
Students should be encouraged to pursue their education and training in quantum technologies, as this will make them eligible for future job opportunities and will also aid India’s growth in this technology sector. Government as well as industries must continue to provide funding for infrastructure support to achieve a vibrant quantum computing ecosystem in India. India has made significant investments in this technology to take its future to new heights.