Introduction to Quantum Computing and Information in India

India's journey in the realm of quantum computing and information has been marked by a slow yet steady progress. While the global scientific community recognized the immense potential of quantum technologies early on, India's engagement with these technologies experienced a notable lag. However, the landscape has transformed significantly in the past decade, witnessing a surge in research activities involving various institutions, government agencies, and startups. This article explores the current state and future prospects of quantum computing and information in India.

The Historical Context

The early 2000s saw limited experimental research and inadequate funding in India. However, around 2010, the situation began to change. The Indian government's commitment to this field can be seen through its ambitious Quantum Mission announced in the 2020 Union Budget, which allocates a substantial budget of 80 billion Rupees. This mission encompasses four key verticals: Quantum Computing, Simulations, Quantum Communications, Quantum Sensing and Metrology, and Quantum Materials and Devices. This initiative aims to foster a comprehensive ecosystem for quantum research and development in the country.

The Global Implications and Challenges

The advent of a fully functional quantum computer is anticipated to revolutionize the way computations are performed globally. While the first breakthrough may not be unique to India, the ramifications of quantum computing are profound. The cryptographic algorithms like RSA, which serve as the backbone of many existing security systems, may face significant challenges. Quantum computers could break these encryption codes, severely compromising cybersecurity protocols.

Government Initiatives and Support

The Indian government has taken proactive steps to support the growth of quantum technology. The Union Budget in 2020 included a mention of the domain of computation, bringing it to the forefront. The Department of Science and Technology (DST) of India has launched several initiatives to provide adequate funding for research in this field. Notable among these is the QuEST (Quantum Enabled Science and Technology) program, which received Rs. 80 crores to build a quantum computer.

Technological Challenges and Solutions

A major hurdle in the development of quantum computers is the cryogenic requirements. Setting up large refrigeration units to minimize thermal losses is an expensive task that poses significant challenges. While companies like D-Wave spend around USD 15 million for their systems, the current Indian budget is around USD 11 million. Even if costs are reduced in India, a four-qubit system is estimated to cost between Rs. 15 to 30 crores. However, once a basic system is built, scaling up to higher orders of magnitude becomes less expensive.

Government's Specific Goals and Future Aspirations

The DST's goal is to build a proof-of-concept quantum computer with a 4-qubit system. This initiative aims to develop a foundational technology that can then be scaled to more advanced systems. India's roadmap involves a concerted effort to not only build quantum computers but also to develop indigenous quantum security solutions. The establishment of a dedicated quantum-security section under the Data Security Department in tech organizations may be a norm in the near future, ensuring robust cybersecurity against quantum threats.

Conclusion

While the journey towards quantum computing and information in India is still in its infancy, the commitment and initiatives taken by the government and various stakeholders are promising. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but the potential rewards are immense. As India continues to invest in quantum research, the country's tech ecosystem is poised to witness transformative changes that could position it at the forefront of this new era of computing.