NITI Aayog’s Frontier Tech Hub (NITI-FTH) has released a report on quantum computing and its implications for national security, aiming to help India lead in the quantum technology domain. Here’s what UPSC aspirants need to know about quantum computing and its potential.

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• NITI Aayog’s Frontier Tech Hub (NITI-FTH) released a strategic paper on quantum computing’s evolution and its national security impact.
• Quantum computing relies on quantum mechanics principles, such as superposition, entanglement, and interference, for advanced computing.
• Superposition allows quantum bits (qubits) to exist in multiple states at once until observed.
• Entanglement links particles such that measuring one determines the state of the other instantly, which can be used for secure communications.
• Interference manipulates particle states to improve the accuracy of quantum algorithms.
• Microsoft’s Majorana 1 chip advances quantum computing by creating more resilient qubits, enhancing scalability and error correction.
• Quantum computing could reshape national security by strengthening cryptography and cybersecurity, ensuring better data security through Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC).
• Quantum technology would enhance intelligence gathering by allowing large-scale interception and analysis of communications.
• Military applications include optimized defense strategies and enhanced AI-driven military systems like autonomous drones and weapon detection.
• Quantum computing poses a new threat to economic warfare, including destabilizing financial markets and stealing intellectual property.
• Geopolitical power: Dominating quantum technology will allow countries to influence global tech standards and regulations.