Proactive Strategy Essential for Quantum Computing in India: NITI Aayog Study

The NITI Aayog report emphasizes the importance of a proactive strategy for quantum computing, highlighting the need for bilateral partnerships and scalability. It also underscores quantum computing’s implications for national security, urging the establishment of a strategic framework to navigate opportunities and threats. With substantial global investments noted, India’s initiatives aim to strengthen its position in the quantum ecosystem.

A recent report published by NITI Aayog’s Frontier Tech Hub (NITI-FTH) emphasizes the vital need for a proactive approach in harnessing quantum computing technology. It highlights the importance of forming bilateral partnerships to facilitate the swift adoption of this emerging technology, particularly focusing on scalable modalities.

The strategic paper, titled “Quantum Computing: National Security Implications & Strategic Preparedness,” outlines that India must adopt a multi-faceted strategy to safeguard national security in the quantum era. It asserts that a robust framework is essential to effectively manage both the prospects and challenges that quantum computing presents.

The document identifies quantum computing as a dual-use technology significantly impacting defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity domains. While India’s National Quantum Mission has made notable progress, there is a pressing need for a strategic outline to counterbalance these technological advancements.

According to the report, advancements in quantum technology may subject India to heightened risks, including technological surprises and strategic vulnerabilities. To avoid jeopardizing national security, economic competitiveness, and technological leadership, preparedness is crucial.

Launched in April 2023, the National Quantum Mission has a financial allocation of ₹6,003 crore aimed at fostering an indigenous quantum technology ecosystem. Additionally, Vinayak Godse, CEO of the Data Security Council of India, highlighted the increasing industrial nature of the quantum ecosystem, noting growth in the supply chain.

The investment landscape reveals that the Chinese government has committed approximately $15 billion to quantum development, substantially exceeding the United States’ $5 billion and Europe’s $1.2 billion contributions. Established in August 2024, NITI-FTH aims to position India as a leader in innovation, focusing on cutting-edge technologies, including quantum computing.

BVR Subrahmanyam remarked on the impactful potential of frontier technologies, suggesting they could enable India to achieve an 8% growth rate. He stressed the importance of the “quantum of impact” rather than merely the investment amounts, citing that the quantum sector had seen agreements worth ₹150 crore signed in 2024, doubling the previous year’s figures.

In summary, the report from NITI Aayog underscores the necessity for India to adopt a proactive and multi-pronged strategy in light of the advancements in quantum computing. It advocates for establishing bilateral partnerships and a comprehensive framework to secure national interests while fostering technological growth. The emphasis on recognizing quantum computing as a dual-use technology reveals the dual challenges and opportunities it presents for national security and economic development. The escalating investments in quantum technology from global competitors indicate the urgency of bolstering India’s capabilities in this domain.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com