By Srinath Sridharan
Projected for as early as 2025, Quantum Day looms as the moment when quantum computers will surpass today’s fastest supercomputers and wield unparalleled power to breach the codes shielding nearly all modern communication. The primary concern lies in the vulnerability of all data transmitted on public networks. Post Q-day, there are imminent threats of intellectual property (IP) theft, exposure of public health records, and military strategies being exposed.
Quantum computing is a revolutionary approach to computation. It leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in ways fundamentally different from classical computers. Unlike classical bits, which represent binary states (0 or 1), quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously due to a phenomenon called superposition. Additionally, the state of one qubit is intrinsically linked to the state of another, enhancing computational power. This enables quantum computers to perform complex calculations at an unprecedented speed.
Quantum computing’s potency is evident—a traditional supercomputer would require 100 trillion years to break a 128-bit encryption code, while quantum computers can accomplish this daunting task in a fraction of that time. Quantum computing holds great promise in fields such as cryptography, optimisation, and artificial intelligence, but its development faces challenges related to qubit stability, error correction, and scaling to industrial levels. The primary challenge lies in scaling the current limited number of qubits to an industrial level. Maintaining qubits in their quantum state proves challenging, as they require cooling to a fraction above absolute zero to function coherently and mitigate destabilising factors like radiation, light, sound, vibrations, and magnetic fields. Additionally, addressing error susceptibility is crucial. The advancement towards powerful quantum computers capable of running quantum algorithms hinges on successfully increasing the number of qubits.
As quantum technologies advance, cybersecurity emerges as a critical concern. The race necessitates a dual focus on creating quantum-resistant encryption methods to protect sensitive information in a post-quantum landscape. Collaborative efforts among nations are essential to establish international standards and protocols, ensuring the secure integration of quantum technologies into existing infrastructures.
In the quest for quantum supremacy, nations are competing to secure dominance in both quantum capacity and operational depth. This race, driven by scientific innovation and strategic investments, is pivotal for unlocking unparalleled computing power. Central to this competition is the emphasis on sustained research and development. Nations will have to prioritise immense funding and collaboration with leading research institutions to propel advancements in quantum technologies. Interdisciplinary cooperation spanning physicists, computer scientists, and engineers, is essential for fostering breakthroughs in this cutting-edge field. Currently, the US and China seemingly have the lead in this race.
China and India, boasting of the world’s two largest populations, are engaged in a competitive race to develop their 1,000-qubit quantum computers, a milestone set to be achieved this year by a single American company—IBM. While China has been ahead in quantum computing development, India recently entered the arena with its National Quantum Mission. Allocated a budget of `6,003 crore over eight years, the mission aims to create 50-1,000 qubits of quantum computing hardware, establish a 2,000 km quantum communications network, and cultivate a thriving domestic ecosystem for quantum research.
It is crucial for India to urgently enhance its fragile STEM ecosystem. To remain competitive in the global arena, India must prioritise substantial funding and collaboration with top-tier global research institutions. We must strategically focus on cultivating our IP in the field of quantum computing and establish a global centre of quantum computing excellence.
Collaborative resource pooling accelerates the development of scalable quantum hardware and robust algorithms, fostering innovation and establishing a global framework for ethical quantum computing. In June 2023, the US and India established the Indo-US Quantum Coordination Mechanism, promoting collaboration among industry, academia, and government entities. This aligns with their joint efforts for a comprehensive Quantum Information Science and Technology agreement.
The quest for quantum supremacy extends beyond constructing potent quantum computers. It involves cultivating an ecosystem that nurtures innovation, collaboration, and responsible development. Training a skilled workforce capable of navigating the possibilities of quantum mechanics and computing will be essential for maintaining a competitive edge. Nations adept at navigating these challenges will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of computing, propelling advancements in optimisation, simulation, AI, and beyond.
The pace of quantum development requires a concerted effort from academia, industry, and government bodies. Collaborative initiatives, research funding, and strategic partnerships are essential to propel India into the vanguard of quantum computing. Moreover, fostering a robust ecosystem for quantum startups and entrepreneurs is crucial, as they are the architects of innovation in this nascent field.
Quantum computing’s impact on employment and entrepreneurship will be both disruptive and transformative. As quantum technologies mature, a surge in demand for skilled professionals versed in quantum algorithms, quantum programming, and quantum security is anticipated. India’s youth, with its innate proclivity for technology, can seize this opportunity to lead the global quantum workforce. From quantum-enhanced AI to secure communication networks, the entrepreneurial landscape is poised for disruption. Policymakers must pave the way for a conducive regulatory environment, incentivising quantum startups and ensuring that India remains at the forefront of this technological wave.
The quantum race demands not just attention but substantial resources—funding that propels extensive research initiatives, knowledge exchange fostering collaboration with leading global institutions, and strategic shaping of IP. India’s foray into the quantum space through the National Quantum Mission is a commendable step, but to truly secure global relevance, an amplified commitment, including larger investments, is required. Deep research investments, coupled with a concerted effort to cultivate a robust ecosystem for quantum innovation, will not only accelerate the development of scalable quantum hardware but also position India as a key player in shaping the future of quantum computing. Time is of the essence, and India must seize this moment to establish itself as a leader in the quantum revolution.
The author is a policy researcher and corporate advisor
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