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News: A Department of Science & Technology (DST) task force has recommended a phased shift to Post-Quantum Cryptography for protecting sensitive data in critical sectors.
About Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)
- Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) refers to a new generation of mathematical algorithms designed to protect digital data from being broken by future quantum computers.
- Aim: PQC aims to ensure that confidential data remains secure even when quantum computers make current encryption methods obsolete.
- Defense Mechanisms: PQC uses quantum-resistant mathematical approaches such as hash-based signatures, multivariate equations, and lattice-based cryptography.
- Significance: PQC helps protect sensitive information from future quantum threats, including “harvest now, decrypt later” (HNDL) attacks, and supports a quantum-safe future.
About National Quantum Mission (NQM)
- The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is one of the nine initiatives under the Prime Minister’s Science Technology Innovation Advisory Council (PMSTIAC) and is a flagship quantum technology initiative of the Government of India.
- Launched in: The mission was approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2023.
- Implemented by: The mission is implemented by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
- Timeline: The mission will run from 2023–24 to 2030–31.
- Objective: The mission aims to seed, nurture, and scale up research and development in quantum technologies, build indigenous capabilities, accelerate technology-led economic growth, and establish India as a leading global force in quantum technologies.
- Key Features:
- Implementation Structure: The mission is implemented through a hub-and-spoke model with four Thematic Hubs hosted at premier institutions across India.
- Quantum Computing: The mission seeks to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50 to 1,000 physical qubits within eight years.
- Quantum Communication: The mission aims to establish satellite-based secure communication over 2,000 km within India and support long-distance Quantum Key Distribution.
- Quantum Sensing and Metrology: The mission focuses on developing high-sensitivity magnetometers and precision atomic clocks for navigation and communication applications.
- Quantum Materials and Devices: The mission promotes fabrication capabilities for quantum materials to support indigenous hardware development.
