This is a field which combines physics and engineering. As we have already learnt, the field leverages the quantum mechanical properties. Quantum technology uses the principles of quantum mechanics. Quantum mechanics is the physics of sub-atomic particles which covers quantum entanglement and quantum superposition. It can solve very complex engineering and scientific problems.
Neil Bohr and Max Planck are the two founding fathers of Quantum Theory. Their work on Quanta received a Nobel. The third founder of Quantum is Einstein who described light as quanta (Photo-electric Effect). Einstein received 1921 Nobel for this work.
In fact, what we require is the convergence of traditional computer bits, quantum qubits and AI-assisted neural programming. The whole thing is to be orchestrated through hybrid cloud architecture.
In 2021, IBM launched a 127-qubit Eagle processor. It is the first processor that goes beyond 100 qubits. Samsung has launched Galaxy Quantum 2. China, as we have observed already, is testing QKD. Both the UK and the USA has agreed to collaborate on the development of quantum science.
Toyota uses quantum to explore new battery materials. Volkswagen uses it for traffic-routing system. Indian startups are building commercial quantum solutions.
India is trying to develop a quantum ecosystem. The government is sponsoring most of the projects. QuST is Quantum Enabled Science and Technology project. It funds projects. It develops quantum computers. It develops communication and cryptography. There is development of app specific quantum algorithms, mathematical quantum techniques and quantum information system. The manpower needed are doctorate degree holders in quantum technology and candidates trained in advanced algorithms.
There is NMQTA mission. It is National Mission on Quantum technologies and Applications.
The Government has planned a capital outlay of $1 billion in the next five years. India can emerge as a lucrative destination for quantum R&D and software development. It will facilitate manufacturing, hi-tech, banking and defence.
Nasscom estimates that adoption of quantum technology can add $280-$310 billion of value to Indian economy by 2030.
There is growth of cloud hyper scalers facilitating the access of quantum technology on the cloud. Hyperscalers provide cloud, networking and internet services at scale by offering organisations access to infrastructure via SaaS model. Google, MS, Facebook, Alibaba and Amazon are hyperscalers. In India, there is 1-2 per cent adoption of quantum computing technology by the enterprises. It is likely to go up to 35-45 per cent over a decade.