Mains Practice Questions for the Day
- Q. Quantum computing has the potential to transform cybersecurity, climate modelling, materials science and logistics, but its practical use is limited by noise, decoherence and error rates. Discuss the significance of quantum computing and examine India’s preparedness through the National Quantum Mission.
- Q. India–Japan relations have moved beyond economic cooperation into strategic, technological and Indo-Pacific cooperation. Discuss in the context of the 16th India–Japan Annual Summit 2026.
Q. Quantum computing has the potential to transform cybersecurity, climate modelling, materials science and logistics, but its practical use is limited by noise, decoherence and error rates. Discuss the significance of quantum computing and examine India’s preparedness through the National Quantum Mission.
(UPSC GS Paper III: Science and Technology, Emerging Technologies, Cybersecurity)
Introduction:
Quantum computing is an emerging technology based on the principles of quantum mechanics. Unlike classical computers that use bits as 0 or 1, quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in multiple states due to superposition. Along with entanglement and interference, this enables quantum computers to solve certain complex problems much faster than classical computers.
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Significance of Quantum Computing
- Cybersecurity and Cryptography
Quantum computers can challenge present encryption systems. At the same time, technologies like Quantum Key Distribution can enable highly secure communication. - Climate Modelling
Quantum computers can help simulate complex climate systems and improve long-term climate prediction. - Materials Science
They can help discover new materials, alloys, superconductors and energy-efficient technologies. - Molecular Simulation and Drug Discovery
Quantum computers can simulate molecules and chemical reactions, supporting drug design and advanced chemistry. - Logistics and Optimisation
They can improve supply chains, traffic systems, scheduling and search-based decision-making.
Challenges
- Decoherence: Qubits lose their quantum state due to interaction with heat, light or electromagnetic interference.
- High error rates: Present quantum systems are still noisy and fragile.
- Need for extreme cooling: Many quantum processors require temperatures near absolute zero.
- Expensive hardware: Quantum systems need advanced infrastructure and specialised materials.
- Skill gap: India needs more trained quantum scientists, engineers and technicians.
- Cybersecurity risk: Future quantum computers may break existing cryptographic systems.
India’s Preparedness: National Quantum Mission
India sanctioned the National Quantum Mission in April 2023 with an allocation of over ₹6,000 crore. It aims to make India a leading nation in quantum technologies by 2031.
Key components include:
- Development of quantum computers with 20–50 qubits in 3 years, 50–100 qubits in 5 years and up to 1000 qubits in 8 years.
- Quantum-secured communication over 2,000 km within India.
- Development of inter-city Quantum Key Distribution networks.
- Four Thematic Hubs in Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing and Metrology, and Quantum Materials and Devices.
- Initiatives by DRDO, SETS and C-DOT in quantum-safe encryption, post-quantum cryptography and quantum-secure communication.
Way Forward
India should invest in Quantum Error Correction, develop indigenous quantum hardware and software, promote academia-industry collaboration, support deep-tech start-ups and build a strong quantum-skilled workforce. Quantum-safe cybersecurity must also be adopted early to protect critical digital infrastructure
Conclusion:
Quantum computing can become a strategic technology for the future. However, its success depends on overcoming noise, decoherence and error correction challenges. Through the National Quantum Mission, India has an opportunity to build deep-tech self-reliance, strengthen cybersecurity and contribute to Viksit Bharat 2047.
Q. India–Japan relations have moved beyond economic cooperation into strategic, technological and Indo-Pacific cooperation. Discuss in the context of the 16th India–Japan Annual Summit 2026.
(UPSC GS Paper II: International Relations, Bilateral Relations, Indo-Pacific)
Introduction:
India and Japan share a Special Strategic and Global Partnership rooted in civilisational links, democratic values and shared concerns in the Indo-Pacific. The 16th India–Japan Annual Summit 2026 showed that the relationship has moved beyond trade and investment into defence, technology, clean energy, connectivity and global governance.
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Strategic and Defence Cooperation
- The summit marked a major breakthrough through the UNICORN Project, the first India–Japan defence co-development programme. Cooperation in Maritime Domain Awareness, naval Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul, joint military exercises and the proposed 2+2 Ministerial Meeting reflects the growing security dimension of the partnership. This is significant for maintaining a rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific.
Economic Security and Connectivity
- Both countries adopted a Joint Declaration on Economic Security Cooperation, focusing on semiconductors, critical minerals, ICT, clean energy and pharmaceuticals. Japan’s continued support for high-speed rail, metro projects, industrial corridors and North-East connectivity strengthens India’s infrastructure and manufacturing ecosystem.
Technology and Clean Energy Partnership
- The launch of the India–Japan AI Strategic Dialogue, cooperation in the LUPEX Moon Mission, and progress in quantum technologies highlight a future-oriented technological partnership. Clean energy cooperation through green hydrogen, clean ammonia, solar technologies and the Cooperative Biogas for Growth Initiative support India’s energy transition.
Indo-Pacific and Global Governance
- Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, freedom of navigation under UNCLOS, Quad cooperation, counter-terrorism and UNSC reforms. Japan’s support for India’s role in disaster risk reduction and global governance further strengthens strategic convergence.
Challenges
However, issues such as trade imbalance, project delays, regulatory barriers, limited people-to-people exchanges and China-linked supply-chain dependence remain concerns.
Conclusion:
Thus, the 16th Annual Summit shows that India–Japan ties are no longer limited to economic cooperation. They have become central to India’s Act East Policy, Indo-Pacific strategy, technological self-reliance and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
