Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are topics of profound significance in the course of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. These groundbreaking technologies have numerous applications, posing both opportunities and challenges in their implementation. The Indian Army’s recent developments include setting up a Quantum Computing Laboratory and an AI centre in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh.
Overview of the Quantum Computing Laboratory and Artificial Intelligence Centre
The Quantum Computing Laboratory has been established with the assistance of the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). This organization handles strategic issues concerning politics, economy, energy, and security. The newly created lab aims to pioneer research and training in quantum technology, a progressively crucial field.
Parallelly, the Indian Army has also established an AI Center at the same institution. This center, with over 140 deployments in forward areas, operates with the active support of industry and academia. Training on cyber warfare is provided through advanced cyber range and cyber security labs.
Purpose of the Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence Centres
The primary objectives of these centres are to conduct comprehensive research to develop transformative technologies for use by the armed forces. The organizations also aim to facilitate research and training in the burgeoning realms of Quantum and artificial intelligence.
About Quantum Technology and its Applications
Quantum Technology operates on principles of Quantum mechanics developed in the early 20th century to describe nature at the scale of atoms and elementary particles. Using quantum superposition, quantum computers can mimic several classical computers working simultaneously, computing in ‘qubits’ or quantum bits.
The applications of Quantum Technology span across various sectors. It promises secure communication links, helps to answer fundamental questions in physics, contributes significantly to disaster management, expedites pharmaceutical discoveries, and augments Industrial Revolution 4.0.
Challenges Associated with Quantum Computing
Despite the numerous advantages, Quantum Computing does carry significant risks. Its disruptive influence on cryptographic encryption, which protects communications and computers, can pose a major threat if falling into the wrong hands. Official and confidential government data may be at risk of being hacked and misused.
Indian Initiatives in Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence
India has been taking considerable strides in the field of Quantum Technology and AI. Budget 2020 allocated Rs 8000 Crore to a National Mission on Quantum Technologies & Applications (NM-QTA) for a period of five years. In the same year, the Union Cabinet approved the launch of the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). Also, under QUEST – Quantum Enabled Science and Technology, the government kick-started research projects across 51 organisations. These represent significant steps by India towards becoming a leading player in advanced technologies.
