India’s First Undergraduate Minor Programme in Quantum Technologies Is Launched by AICTE and NQM

QUANTUM TECHNOLOGY is an improvement of the technology based on the principles of QM in terms of computing, communication, sensing and material. It has transformative potential across various domains: Quantum Computing gives solutions for computations with qubits superior to that of a classical computer; Quantum Communication is used in a safe way of data exchange through QKD; Quantum Sensing aids exact measurements used in medicine, navigation and climate; Quantum Materials open avenue for improvements in semiconductor and superconducting technologies.

As we speak, the leading nations in this area include the USA, China, and nations in the European Union. India intends the National Quantum Mission (2023) in ₹6,000 crore to improve quantum engineering and infrastructure. 

Key Points

• Partnership: AICTE 2019-20 and National Quantum Mission National Post Graduate Scholarship for Professional Courses for SC/ST Students.

• Objective: Develop quantum talent in India to address the quantum technologies revolution and make India a quantum nation.

Program Highlights

• Eligibility: Also available to students from all disciplines within the faculty of engineering.

• Focus Areas:

  • Basic Aspects of Quantum Communication and Cryptography

  • Quantum Sensing

  • Quantum Materials and Devices

About Quantum Technology

• Quantum technology builds on aspects of quantum mechanics as a branch of physics that deals with the tiniest particles in the universe.

• Use in nuclear power, semiconductors and new technology devices.

The key areas of Quantum Technology

1. Quantum Computing

• Concept: Works with quantum bits, more commonly known as qubits, instead of the small classical bits.

• Advantages: 

  • Making calculations quicker when decrypting messages or making simulation easier and much more. 

  • Dispatching of multiple industries and its potential to create disruptive game changers across fields like Artificial Intelligence, drug discovery, and Material Science.

• Features:

  • Superposition: Its unique attribute is that while the states in qubits can be expressed in |0 and |1 simultaneously.

  • Entanglement: A pair of qubits can influence each other no matter the distance that separates them.

2. Quantum Communication

• Secures communication many folds through quantum key distribution (QKD).

3. Quantum Sensing

• Precise measurements for automobile direction, cancer treatment, and oil and gas searches.

• Applications are such as detecting gravitational wave and monitoring the climate change.

4. Quantum Materials and Devices

• These applications are in the development of advanced semiconductors, modern superconductors as well as nanomaterials.

• Cooper in sensors, quantum computers, and many other advanced gadgets and technologies.

Application

• National Security

  • Data encryption for the use of defense.

  • Cryptanalysis with a quantum computer of conventional encryption systems.

• Space Exploration

  • High-accurate satellite orbit determination and communication.

  • Sensors for intelligent navigation and detection in space.

• Healthcare

  • Molecules simulation approach for drug discovery.

  • Improved imaging techniques.

• Finance and Logistics

  • Optimization of large systems in different industries, such supply chain networks.

  • Better security measures for financial business.

Global Scenario

• United States: Targeted quantum computing and technologies under the National Quantum Initiative Act it.

• China: Exemplary in the field of quantum communication; showcased quantum satellite communicational capabilities.

• European Union: Quantum Flagship initiative is about research and development.

Indian Scenario

• National Quantum Mission(2023)

  • Budget: ₹6,000 crore spread over a period of eight years in India.

  • Objectives: Cultivate quantum computing, protection, and sensing many applications.

  • Collaborations: National Mission on Quantum Technologies sponsored by AICTE launched India’s First Undergraduate Minor Programme in Quantum Technologies.

  • Research Initiatives: Many institutes including the IITs and TIFR are already involved in the field of quantum research.

Challenges 

• Technical Limitations

  • Temperature and coherence times and control and measurement errors.

  • Expenses of development and implementation remain high given that is a relatively new framework.

• Skilled Workforce

  • Specialist training and education needed for the job.

• Global Competition

  • Moving forward in the quantum race while global advancements are being made.

Way Forward

• Policy and Funding: Further governmental support for funding research as well as developing the needed infrastructure.

• Education and Training: Develop quantum technology as an undergraduate and postgraduate program.

• Public-Private Partnerships: There is a need to partner with industries for the purpose of applicative implementations and creativity.

Conclusion

Quantum technology is a breakthrough advancement in sciences and innovations, it holds the promise to revolutionize many applications such as computing, communication, and sensing. Some of these challenges include high costs of manufacturing, instabilities of qubit, and a dearth of specialists in this field At such a state the application of strategies in the form of investment besides seeking technological synergies seems to countercheck such hurdles.