Quantum Breakthrough in Digital Security | 16 Oct 2025
Why in News?
In a global first, researchers from Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bengaluru have developed a method to generate true random numbers using a commercial quantum computer vital for hack-proof digital security.
- This is the first major globally-relevant research output from India's National Quantum Mission, with key commercial and strategic implications for critical infrastructure.
What are True Random Numbers (TRNs) in Quantum Technology?
- About: Random numbers are sequences of numbers generated by measuring the inherently unpredictable behavior of quantum particles, arising from completely random physical processes rather than any predetermined algorithm or pattern.
- E.g., a photon in quantum superposition will randomly collapse into a state upon measurement. This randomness is not predictable or influenced by external factors.
- Time Separation over Spatial Separation: Previous experiments relied on spatial separation of quantum particles to ensure independence. Now, RRI introduced time separation in a single particle’s quantum state, allowing for more practical implementation in everyday settings, without requiring large setups.
- This innovation brings the technology closer to real-world applications, where external factors like noise could distort quantum behaviors.
- Significance in Digital Security: Random numbers are the foundation of encryption and cybersecurity, used to generate passwords, encryption keys, and authentication systems.
- True quantum randomness ensures unpredictability and maximum security, making it vital for future-ready encryption systems.
- Current systems rely on pseudorandom numbers generated by algorithms that only may become vulnerable to quantum computers in the near future.
How does True Random Numbers (TRNs) Differ from Current Methods?
|
Feature |
Current Methods (PRNs) |
True Random Numbers (TRNs) |
|
Source of randomness |
Algorithmic (pseudorandom numbers-PRNs) or classical physical noise (thermal, electronic) |
Intrinsic quantum phenomena (photon polarization, electron spin, quantum superposition) |
|
Predictability |
Can be predicted if algorithm or seed is known |
Fundamentally unpredictable due to quantum uncertainty |
|
Nature |
Deterministic or noise-based |
Truly random, non-deterministic |
|
Mechanism |
Uses mathematical algorithms (e.g., Linear Congruential Generators) or classical processes |
Measures quantum processes, e.g., photon passing through a beam splitter or electron spin measurement |
|
Security |
Suitable for general computing, less secure for cryptography |
Highly secure; ideal for cryptography and quantum key distribution |
|
Applications |
Simulations, games, general computing |
Secure communications, quantum cryptography, high-security applications |
Quantum Technology
- About: Quantum Technology refers to a class of advanced technologies that exploit the unique principles of quantum mechanics — such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum tunneling — to perform tasks that are impossible or extremely inefficient with classical technologies.
- Core Principles:
- Superposition: Quantum particles (like electrons or photons) can exist in multiple states simultaneously until measured.
- Entanglement: Two or more quantum particles can become strongly correlated, so the state of one instantaneously affects the other, even at a distance.
- Quantum Tunneling & Coherence: Particles can pass through energy barriers and maintain a delicate quantum state, enabling precise computation and sensing.
National Quantum Mission
- About: It is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Science & Technology to promote research, development, and applications of quantum technologies. It runs from 2023–24 to 2030–31.
- It is one of the nine missions under the Prime Minister’s Science Technology Innovation Advisory Council (PMSTIAC).
- Focus Areas:
- Quantum Computing: Develop intermediate-scale quantum computers (20–50 qubits in 3 years; 50–100 in 5 years; 50–1000 in 8 years).
- Quantum Communication: Satellite-based secure communication over 2000 km, inter-city Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), and multi-node quantum networks.
- Quantum Sensing & Clocks: High-precision magnetometers, gravity sensors, and atomic clocks for navigation, timing, and secure communication.
- Quantum Materials & Devices: Develop superconductors, topological materials, and qubit devices for computing and metrology applications
- Implementation Strategy:
- Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs): Four T-Hubs across IISc Bengaluru, IIT Madras (with C-DoT), IIT Bombay, and IIT Delhi.
- Hub-Spoke-Spike Model: Central hubs, research projects (Spokes), and individual research groups (Spikes) for collaborative innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the National Quantum Mission (NQM)?
A flagship initiative by the Government of India (2023–31) to advance quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials, making India globally competitive.
2. What are Quantum Random Numbers?
Numbers generated from inherently unpredictable quantum particle behavior, used for secure encryption and hack-proof digital systems.
3. What are the main focus areas of NQM?
Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication (QKD & satellite-based), Quantum Sensing & Clocks, and Quantum Materials & Devices.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)
Q. Which one of the following is the context in which the term "qubit" is mentioned? (2022)
(a) Cloud Services
(b) Quantum Computing
(c) Visible Light Communication Technologies
(d) Wireless Communication Technologies
Ans: (b)