DRDO and IIT Delhi scientists demonstrate Quantum Key Distribution between two cities 100 kilometers apart

What is the News?

A team of scientists from the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has successfully demonstrated the Quantum Key Distribution(QKD) link between Prayagraj and Vindhyachal in Uttar Pradesh, a distance of more than 100 kilometers.

What is Quantum Key Distribution(QKD)?

QKD is primarily a mechanism to undertake secure communication which utilizes a cryptographic protocol involving various components of quantum mechanics. 

The technology enables two communicating sides to come up with random secret keys shared by both of them and known exclusively to them, so only they can use it to encrypt and decrypt messages, thus achieving a very highly-secure communication.

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What is the significance of this demonstration?

Secure communications are vital for defence and strategic agencies across the globe and the distribution of encryption keys is the crucial factor for it. Quantum Key Distribution(QKD) offers a robust solution to sharing the keys securely. 

Hence, the demonstration of this technology will enable security agencies to plan a suitable quantum communication network with indigenous technology backbone.

Source: This post is based on the article “DRDO and IIT Delhi scientists demonstrate Quantum Key Distribution between two cities 100 kilometers apart” published in PIB on 24th February 2022.