National Quantum Mission (NQM)

Here’s a short note on the National Quantum Mission (NQM):

Overview

• Launch Date: Approved by the Union Cabinet on 19th April 2023.
• Duration: The mission spans from 2023-24 to 2030-31.
• Budget: Allocated a total of ₹6,003.65 crore.
• Objective: To position India as a global leader in quantum technologies by fostering research, innovation, and industrial applications.

Key Objectives

1. Quantum Computing Development:
   • Develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with:
     • 20-50 qubits in 3 years.
     • 50-100 qubits in 5 years.
     • 50-1000 qubits in 8 years.
   • Platforms include superconducting, photonic, and ion-trap technologies.
2. Quantum Communication:
   • Establish satellite-based quantum-secured communication between two ground stations over 2000 km within India.
   • Enable long-distance secure quantum communication with other countries.
   • Implement inter-city Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) over 2000 km using optical fiber infrastructure.
3. Quantum Networks:
   • Develop multi-node quantum networks with quantum memories, entanglement swapping, and synchronized quantum repeaters.
4. Quantum Sensing and Metrology:
   • Design advanced quantum devices such as:
     • Magnetometers with sensitivity up to 1 femto-Tesla/sqrt (Hz).
     • Atomic clocks with fractional instability of 10⁻¹⁹ for precision timing and navigation.
     • Gravity sensors with sensitivity better than 100 nano-meter/second².
5. Quantum Materials and Devices:
   • Support the synthesis of quantum materials like superconductors, novel semiconductors, and topological materials.
   • Develop single-photon sources/detectors and entangled photon sources for communication and sensing.

Implementation Framework

• Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs):
  • Four T-Hubs established in premier institutions to focus on:
    1. Quantum Computing.
    2. Quantum Communication.
    3. Quantum Sensing and Metrology.
    4. Quantum Materials and Devices.
  • Institutions include IISc Bengaluru, IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, and IIT Delhi.
  • Operate under a Hub-Spoke-Spike model to enhance collaboration among research institutions.

Applications and Benefits

1. Cybersecurity:
   • Strengthen data protection through quantum-secured communication.
2. Healthcare:
   • Applications in drug design and medical imaging.
3. Energy:
   • Optimize energy systems using quantum algorithms.
4. Space and Navigation:
   • Enhance precision in satellite navigation and space exploration.
5. Banking and Finance:
   • Improve encryption methods for secure financial transactions.

Academic and Industrial Impact

• Human Resource Development:
  • Train researchers and professionals in quantum technologies.
• Entrepreneurship:
  • Promote startups and industries in the quantum domain.
• Global Collaboration:
  • Strengthen partnerships with international institutions and researchers.

Key Personalities

• Dr. Jitendra Singh: Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, instrumental in the mission’s launch.
• Department of Science and Technology (DST): Nodal agency for implementing the mission.

Significance

• Aligns with national priorities like Digital India, Make in India, Skill India, and Start-up India.
• Supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing challenges in climate change, healthcare, and energy.
• Positions India as a global leader in the emerging field of quantum technologies.

Here are some MCQs based on the National Quantum Mission:

1. What is the budget allocated for the National Quantum Mission?
   • ₹5,000 crore
   • ₹6,003.65 crore
   • ₹7,000 crore
   • ₹6,500 crore
   • Answer: ₹6,003.65 crore
2. What is the duration of the National Quantum Mission?
   • 2023-24 to 2030-31
   • 2024-25 to 2031-32
   • 2022-23 to 2029-30
   • 2025-26 to 2032-33
   • Answer: 2023-24 to 2030-31
3. Under the National Quantum Mission, what is the target for developing intermediate-scale quantum computers?
   • 10-100 qubits
   • 50-1000 qubits
   • 20-500 qubits
   • 100-2000 qubits
   • Answer: 50-1000 qubits
4. What is one of the key applications of quantum technology under the mission?
   • Climate change adaptation
   • Blockchain technology
   • Satellite-based quantum communication
   • Renewable energy solutions
   • Answer: Satellite-based quantum communication
5. Which institution is NOT among the thematic hubs (T-Hubs) of the National Quantum Mission?
   • IISc Bengaluru
   • IIT Madras
   • IIT Kanpur
   • IIT Bombay
   • Answer: IIT Kanpur
6. Who is the nodal agency for implementing the National Quantum Mission?
   • Ministry of Electronics and IT
   • Ministry of Science and Technology
   • Ministry of Defence
   • Ministry of Education
   • Answer: Ministry of Science and Technology
7. What collaboration model does the National Quantum Mission follow?
   • Hub-Spoke-Spike model
   • Triple Helix model
   • Linear Chain model
   • Network-Based model
   • Answer: Hub-Spoke-Spike model
8. What is the significance of the National Quantum Mission for India’s economy?
   • Regulation of trade tariffs
   • Reduced urban unemployment
   • Accelerated growth through quantum technology
   • Promotion of cultural exchange
   • Answer: Accelerated growth through quantum technology
9. What is the expected sensitivity of gravity sensors under the mission?
   • Better than 50 nano-meter/second²
   • Better than 100 nano-meter/second²
   • Better than 200 nano-meter/second²
   • Better than 500 nano-meter/second²
   • Answer: Better than 100 nano-meter/second²
10. What role does academia play in the National Quantum Mission?
    • Conduct research and develop quantum technologies
    • Promote international trade policies
    • Enhance sports participation
    • Regulate cybersecurity frameworks
    • Answer: Conduct research and develop quantum technologies