25-December-2024-Special-Article

INDIA’S NATIONAL QUANTUM MISSION AND QUANTUM SATELLITE

India is advancing its technological frontiers by launching a quantum satellite under the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in the next 2-3 years. This initiative will enhance secure communication using quantum physics, solidifying India’s position in cutting-edge technology.

What is a Quantum Satellite?

A quantum satellite is a specialized communication satellite that uses quantum physics principles to secure transmissions. Its primary function is to ensure data remains safe from interception.

Technology Used:

• Quantum Cryptography: A technology based on quantum mechanics to encrypt and transmit data.
• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): A method that generates secure cryptographic keys and ensures detection of any unauthorized attempts to access them.

How Quantum Cryptography Works:

Traditional Encryption Vulnerability: Classical encryption systems, such as those used today, can be broken by quantum computers.

Quantum Encryption Advantage:

• Relies on quantum properties like superposition and entanglement.
• If photons (light particles) carrying the encryption key are tampered with, their state changes, alerting the sender and receiver.

Entanglement Effect: Changes to one entangled photon immediately impact the other, making interception detectable.

Ultimate Security: Quantum cryptography offers near-impenetrable security by detecting any attempts at eavesdropping.

Global Developments in Quantum Communication

China’s Leadership: Operates the largest QKD network globally, including three satellites and four ground stations.

India’s Progress:

• ISRO successfully demonstrated free-space quantum communication over a 300-meter range.
• The Indian Astronomical Observatory in Hanle, Ladakh, is being considered for quantum satellite experiments.

United Nations Initiative: The year 2025 is declared the ‘International Year of Quantum Science and Technology’ to promote awareness about its significance.

Challenges in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)

• Technological Maturity: Quantum technology is still at an experimental stage in India, and large-scale deployment is years away.
• High Costs: Specialized equipment and infrastructure make QKD more expensive than conventional encryption methods.
• Compatibility Issues: Integrating QKD with existing networks while maintaining compatibility with traditional systems is complex.
• Authentication Gaps: QKD secures data but doesn’t verify the identity of the communicating parties, leaving room for impersonation attacks.

National Quantum Mission (NQM)

Launched in 2023 with a ₹60,000 crore budget, the NQM aims to position India as a global leader in quantum technologies by 2030-31.

Objectives:

• Develop quantum computers with 50-1,000 quantum bits (qubits) using superconducting and photonic platforms.
• Establish secure quantum communication networks within 2,000 km.
• Support inter-city QKD and multi-node quantum networks.
• Design advanced atomic clocks for precision applications.

Significance:

• Pushes technological boundaries beyond classical systems.
• Aligns with national initiatives like Digital India and Make in India.
• Strengthens sectors like health, banking, and space exploration.

Implementation Strategy:

• Four Thematic Hubs will focus on Quantum Computing, Communication, Sensing, Metrology, and Materials.
• Collaboration with top research institutions to promote innovation.

Potential Applications

• Healthcare: Drug discovery and medical imaging.
• Financial Services: Secure banking and payment systems.
• Defense: Unbreachable communication networks.
• Space Exploration: Advanced satellite communication technologies.

Way Forward

• Post-Quantum Cryptography: Combining quantum-resistant algorithms with classical encryption to overcome hardware challenges in QKD.
• Quantum Authentication: Developing protocols to verify the identity of communicating parties for enhanced security.
• Affordable Solutions: Focus on miniaturized and cost-effective devices for scalable deployment in industries like healthcare and defense.
• Global Partnerships: India should collaborate with international organizations like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to ensure global compatibility of quantum technologies.

Conclusion

India’s ambitious National Quantum Mission signifies a leap toward becoming a leader in quantum technologies. Despite challenges like high costs and technological limitations, focused efforts on research, international collaboration, and scalable solutions can make this vision a reality. Quantum communication is poised to transform sectors like defence, healthcare, and finance, ensuring a secure and connected future.

Mains Question:

1. “Discuss the significance of quantum satellites in ensuring secure communication and evaluate the role of India’s National Quantum Mission in advancing quantum technologies globally.” (150 WORDS)