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Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on March 08, 2025

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NITI Aayog’s report on quantum computing

For Preliminary Examination:  Current events of national and international importance

For Mains Examination: GS III - Science & Technology

Context:

To accelerate India’s transition into a frontier Tech nation, NITI Aayog has, recently, established the NITI Frontier Tech Hub (NITI-FTH). In partnership with the Data Security Council of India, NITI-FTH has released a strategic paper on the rapid evolution of Quantum Computing, and its implications on National Security and provides strategic perspectives to help India navigate and lead in a transformative era

Read about:

What is Quantum Computing?

National Quantum Mission

Key takeaways:

Quantum Technology and Its Significance

Quantum technology is a broad term encompassing advancements that are fundamentally based on the principles of quantum mechanics. It involves the development of essential hardware, software, algorithms, and protocols to design and build quantum computing devices such as quantum computers.

This technology leverages quantum mechanical principles like superposition, entanglement, and interference to significantly enhance computational efficiency, particularly in large-scale problem-solving.

Key Concepts in Quantum Computing

• Superposition: Unlike classical bits, quantum computing operates using quantum bits or "qubits," whose stability is critical for computational performance. Superposition allows qubits to exist in multiple states simultaneously until they are measured. Once observed, a qubit collapses into a definite state, losing its ability to be in multiple locations at once.

• Entanglement: This phenomenon occurs when two or more particles that have interacted remain linked, meaning that measuring one particle instantly determines the state of the other, regardless of distance. Entanglement is particularly useful in secure quantum communication, as it enables secure transmission of information between a sender and a receiver.

• Interference: Quantum interference arises from the superposition of quantum states, influencing the probability of different outcomes. While entanglement links two particles, interference occurs among multiple particles. This principle helps refine quantum algorithms by amplifying the most probable solutions while suppressing less likely ones, thereby improving computational accuracy.

Quantum Computing’s Role in National Security

According to the NITI Frontier Tech Hub’s Quarterly Insight, quantum technologies are transforming national security in several ways:

• Cryptography and Cybersecurity: Traditional public-key encryption methods are vulnerable to quantum attacks, especially from cryptanalytically relevant quantum computers (CRQCs). The report recommends the adoption of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)—new cryptographic techniques designed to withstand quantum-based threats—to ensure robust dat