Hindu Editorial Analysis : 19-May-2023
India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM) has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, including defense, energy, environment, healthcare, and civil applications. By harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, which describe nature at the atomic and subatomic levels, scientists have made remarkable progress in understanding biological phenomena, secure communication, disaster management, computing, simulation, chemistry, healthcare, cryptography, and imaging.
Understanding Quantum Technology
Quantum technology is based on the principles of quantum mechanics, a field developed in the early 20th century to explain the behavior of atoms and elementary particles. In recent years, scientists have expanded quantum theory to comprehend complex biological processes such as smell, consciousness, enzyme catalysis, photosynthesis, avian navigation, and the effects of coronavirus. The applications of quantum technology are vast and encompass secure communication, improved disaster prediction, advanced computing, simulation, chemistry, healthcare, cryptography, and imaging.
The Objectives of the National Quantum Mission
The National Quantum Mission, led by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) with support from other departments, aims to strengthen India’s research and development in the quantum arena. It seeks to indigenously build powerful quantum-based computers capable of solving highly complex problems in a secure manner. While several countries such as the US, Canada, France, Finland, China, and Austria are already engaged in quantum technology R&D, India’s mission will focus on developing quantum computers with physical qubits ranging from 50 to 1000 over the next eight years.
Themes and Hubs
To facilitate research and development, the mission will establish four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in leading academic and National R&D institutes. These hubs will specialize in Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices. By generating new knowledge through basic and applied research, the hubs will contribute to the advancement of quantum technologies. Their activities will align with the national priorities of Digital India, Make in India, Skill India, Stand-up India, Self-reliant India, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Significance and Benefits
Investments in quantum materials and devices will not only advance quantum technologies but also create a highly skilled workforce in India. As the country aims to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027, a robust material infrastructure is essential for major scientific projects like the semiconductor mission, neutrino observatory, and gravitational wave detection. The National Quantum Mission will have a profound impact on communication, health, finance, energy, drug design, and space applications, aligning with national priorities and SDGs.
Suggestions for Success
To achieve the mission’s goals, dedicated research efforts are required to develop low-loss materials for superconducting quantum electronics, high-brightness sources of entangled photons, and other crucial components. This research must be conducted through centralized material/device infrastructures. Furthermore, capacity building is crucial, and the mission can leverage the existing scientific infrastructure in the country and align with national mandates. Strategic recruitment of new talent, collaborative efforts among multiple institutions, and streamlined bureaucratic processes are essential to meet the mission’s deadlines. Existing initiatives such as Startup India can also provide support and resources for these activities.
Why In News
India’s National Quantum Mission has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, including defense, energy, environment, healthcare, and civil applications, with its groundbreaking advancements in quantum technology. By fostering collaboration between scientists, researchers, and industry experts, the mission aims to unlock unprecedented opportunities for innovation, paving the way for a quantum-powered future in India’s key sectors.
MCQs about India’s National Quantum Mission
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What is the primary objective of India’s National Quantum Mission?
A. To develop quantum computers with physical qubits ranging from 50 to 1000
B. To strengthen research and development in quantum technologies
C. To revolutionize the healthcare sector through quantum advancements
D. To promote sustainable development goals through quantum applications
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What are the four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) established under the National Quantum Mission?
A. Quantum Mechanics, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, Quantum Computing
B. Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, Quantum Materials & Devices
C. Quantum Computing, Quantum Chemistry, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, Quantum Materials & Devices
D. Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Simulation, Quantum Materials & Devices
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Which sectors can benefit from the National Quantum Mission?
A. Defense, energy, and environment
B. Healthcare and civil applications
C. Communication, finance, and energy
D. All of the above
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What is one suggestion mentioned in the essay for the success of the National Quantum Mission?
A. Strengthening international collaborations
B. Implementing strict bureaucratic norms
C. Developing low-loss materials for superconducting quantum electronics
D. Focusing solely on quantum computing research
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