Quantum Era: A New Technological Revolution

News18

2 days ago

While we may not yet see quantum computers on every desk, their influence is already here, quietly transforming industries, research, and geopolitics
We are told the quantum era is not so far off. The truth is the quantum era has already begun. So far, human history has witnessed several technological revolutions that have reshaped economies, societies, and the very way we think. We have witnessed various industrial revolutions, the age of electricity, the digital revolution, the ongoing AI era, and now, on the horizon, the quantum era. This emerging era promises to redefine what is computationally possible, bringing with it transformative advances in computing, communication, sensing, and beyond.
Two of the most revolutionary technologies of the 21st century, as of now, are quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI). They are already reshaping research and industry on their own. But what happens when these two fields begin to merge? The answer could redefine what humanity can achieve, unlocking entirely new frontiers in science, medicine, finance, and beyond.
Quantum technology could lead to breakthroughs in drug discovery, cryptography and cybersecurity, materials, climate modelling, pharmaceutical research, EV battery development, bin packing, cargo delivery, route optimisation, and image classification. Quantum AI systems help design new molecules or optimise complex systems. The era of quantum computing is the timeline in human history when quantum technologies—based on the principles of quantum mechanics—start moving from theoretical and experimental research into practical, real-world applications that affect business, science, security, healthcare, and daily life. Beyond economic competition, quantum technology has geopolitical significance. It could reshape cybersecurity, defence, and even the balance of scientific leadership between nations.
Quantum computers may not replace classical computers or supercomputers soon. Instead, they will work alongside, solving problems once thought impossible and helping humanity tackle its grandest challenges—from curing diseases to fighting climate change. It's about entering an age when quantum technologies complement and transform what's possible, often by solving problems classical systems can't tackle efficiently.
Globally, many countries are tremendously working on quantum technology at various levels. Recognising the transformative potential of quantum technologies, countries around the world have launched ambitious initiatives. India launched the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in 2023, with a budget of around Rs 6,000 crore. The mission has set specific goals: develop intermediate-scale quantum computers (50-1000 physical qubits). Creating quantum communication networks, including satellite-based secure links. Build skilled human capital through new research centres, academic programmes, and industry partnerships. Supporting quantum sensing technologies for space, defence, and healthcare.
The Andhra Pradesh government has announced Quantum Valley in Amaravati as part of the national quantum mission, its first-ever initiative by any state government in India. The Government of India also focussed on academia for enhancing and strengthening quantum technology. India's approach to quantum computing is driven by many factors, like collaboration between premier institutes such as IITs, IISc Bengaluru, TIFR, and startups. These collaborations are strategic, like in communications of defence activities, and boosting scientific leadership. As the median age in India is 29 years, a young research ecosystem is starting to grow, and the government is encouraging research in this direction.
As of now, India has more than 100 research groups and several startups in quantum software, hardware, and security. Along with the Government of India, premier institutions and research organisations, private companies such as QNu Labs, BosonQ Psi, Qulabs, Taqbit Labs, and others are also exploring quantum algorithms, quantum key distributions, quantum software for various applications, including aerospace and materials simulation, for secure communications, etc.
China has made quantum technology a strategic national priority. It is investing billions of dollars in quantum labs, including the National Laboratory for Quantum Information Sciences in Hefei. It also built the world's first satellite-based quantum communication network (Micius satellite, launched in 2016), enabling quantum key distribution over thousands of kilometres. It has created large-scale terrestrial quantum communication networks linking major cities.
The US has adopted a two-fold approach for quantum technology. One is with federal support, and another is with private leadership. The National Quantum Initiative Act (2018) provides coordinated funding (over $1.2 billion over five years). Strong private sector leadership in the US, such as IBM, Google, Microsoft, AWS, Intel, Rigetti, IonQ, PsiQuantum, and many startups, is extensively working towards quantum technology.
IBM Quantum is building the first large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer by 2029. IBM has already deployed quantum computers on the cloud, working towards fault-tolerant systems. Google famously claimed 'quantum supremacy" in 2019. National labs and universities (Fermilab, MIT, Caltech) develop quantum networks and new algorithms.
The path to a mature Quantum Era isn't guaranteed yet. Technical barriers such as qubit errors, decoherence, and scaling up reliable systems remain formidable. Building a skilled quantum workforce is another global challenge; quantum science combines physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering in ways that demand new educational approaches. The world it shapes will be more complex, more interconnected, and more full of possibility than ever before. And while we may not yet see quantum computers on every desk, their influence is already here, quietly transforming industries, research, and geopolitics. There are also ethical and societal questions. Who controls quantum technologies? How do we ensure equitable access and prevent misuse?
Dr K Venkatakrishna Rao is an Assistant Professor in the department of computer science and engineering at NIT Warangal and also a Visiting Fellow, India Foundation, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views.
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