The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology

The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology

Sub: Science and tech

Sec: Awareness in IT and Computer

The United Nations has proclaimed 2025 as the “International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.”

This initiative aims to increase public awareness and understanding of quantum science and its applications through year-long, worldwide activities. The resolution was spearheaded by Mexico and later supported by numerous countries and international scientific unions.

Significance of the Proclamation

• Historical Context: 2025 marks a century since Werner Heisenberg published his seminal paper that laid the groundwork for quantum mechanics. This recognition underscores the importance of quantum science in shaping modern physics.
• Global Endorsement: The resolution has received widespread support, with over 70 countries backing it, highlighting the global significance of quantum science.
• Scientific and Educational Impact: The year-long celebration will involve various activities aimed at engaging the public, educational institutions, and policymakers, fostering a deeper understanding of quantum technologies.

These organizations have endorsed the proclamation, indicating a broad consensus in the scientific community about the importance of quantum science.

Quantum Science and Technologies

• Quantum Computing: Quantum computers, though not fully operational yet, promise revolutionary advances in computing power, potentially transforming fields like cryptography, materials science, and complex system simulations.
• Quantum Communication: Secure communication methods, such as quantum key distribution, leverage the principles of quantum mechanics to provide unprecedented security.
• Quantum Sensing and Metrology: Quantum sensors and measurement technologies offer ultra-precise detection capabilities, impacting areas like navigation, medical imaging, and fundamental physics research.
• Quantum Materials and Devices: Development of new materials with quantum properties can lead to innovations in electronics, superconductivity, and energy storage.

National Initiatives

• India’s National Quantum Mission: Launched in April 2023, this mission aims to advance quantum technologies in computing, communication, sensing, and materials, with a budget of Rs 6,000 crore over eight years.

Conclusion

The designation of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology by the United Nations signifies a pivotal moment for global scientific collaboration and public engagement. This initiative aims to elevate the understanding and application of quantum science, paving the way for technological advancements and fostering international cooperation in this transformative field.

National Quantum Mission (NQM)

About:

• The National Quantum Mission (NQM) will implemented by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science & Technology.
• The mission is planned for 2023-2031 and aims to seed, nurture, and scale up scientific and industrial R&D, creating a vibrant and innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT).
• With the launch of this mission, India will become the seventh country to have a dedicated quantum mission, following the US, Austria, Finland, France, Canada, and China.

Salient Features of NQM:

• Development of Quantum Computers:
  • Target: Develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-100 physical qubits in 5 years and 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years.
  • Qubits, or quantum bits, are the basic units by which quantum computers process information, similar to how bits (1 and 0) are used in classical computers.
• Magnetometers and Precision Timing:
  • Development of magnetometers with high sensitivity for precision timing (atomic clocks), communications, and navigation.
• Quantum Materials:
  • Support design and synthesis of quantum materials such as superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and topological materials for the fabrication of quantum devices.
• Quantum Communications:
  • Development of satellite-based secure quantum communications between ground stations over a range of 2000 km within India.
  • Long-distance secure quantum communications with other countries.
  • Inter-city quantum key distribution over 2000 km.
  • Creation of a multi-node quantum network with quantum memories.
• Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs):
• Establishment of four Thematic Hubs in top academic and National R&D institutes focusing on:

1. Quantum computation
2. Quantum communication
3. Quantum Sensing & Metrology
4. Quantum Materials & Devices

What is Quantum Technology?

• Field of Science and Engineering: Deals with the principles of quantum mechanics, which studies the behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales.
• Quantum Mechanics: Branch of physics that describes the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic levels.

Advantages of Quantum Technology:

• Increased Computing Power: Quantum computers are significantly faster and capable of solving complex problems beyond the reach of classical computers.
• Improved Security: Quantum encryption techniques are much more secure than traditional methods due to the principles of quantum mechanics.
• Faster Communication: Quantum communication networks can transmit information faster and more securely, with potential for completely unhackable communication.
• Enhanced AI: Quantum machine learning algorithms can enable more efficient and accurate training of AI models.
• Better Sensing and Measurement: Quantum sensors can detect extremely small environmental changes, useful in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and geological exploration.

Disadvantages of Quantum Technology:

• Expensive: Requires specialized equipment and materials, making it costlier than traditional technologies.
• Limited Applications: Currently useful for specific applications like cryptography, quantum computing, and quantum communication.
• Sensitivity to Environment: Highly sensitive to environmental interference (temperature changes, magnetic fields, vibrations) which can disrupt qubits and cause calculation errors.
• Limited Control: Difficult to control and manipulate quantum systems, which can lead to unintended consequences in quantum-powered AI systems.