Quantum Cybersecurity Advance in India
Recent developments by scientists from IIT-Delhi and the DRDO have marked significant progress in quantum cybersecurity, potentially revolutionizing future global communication.
The Current Paradigm
- Current communication security relies on complex mathematical problems.
- Increased computing power has made these problems increasingly difficult to crack.
Imminence of Quantum Computing
- Quantum computers are theorized to solve problems beyond conventional supercomputers' reach.
- This necessitates a shift in cybersecurity strategies.
Quantum Key-Distribution Scheme
- The IIT-Delhi and DRDO team demonstrated this over one kilometer of free space.
- Allows secure message exchange between two distant points.
- If intercepted, changes in decryption keys will indicate compromise, undetectable by eavesdroppers.
- Potential for satellite integration, enabling nationwide secure quantum networks.
National Quantum Mission
This falls under the National Quantum Mission, approved in 2023 with a budget of ₹6,003 crore until 2031.
Challenges and Recommendations
- Only a small portion of the budget has been allocated thus far.
- Issues include venture capital shortfalls, just-in-time funding, and bureaucratic delays.
- Foreign dependency on hardware and software, with critical components fabricated abroad.
- Competitive government pay and resource access issues lead researchers to short-term contracts.
- India's budget is significantly smaller than those of the U.S. and China.
Need for Administrative Reform
The government needs to reform administrative processes to nurture scientific talent and technological advancement.