INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF QUANTUM SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Source: Hindu

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Context

• In a landmark announcement, the United Nations has designated 2025 as the 'International Year of Quantum Science and Technology'.
• This global initiative aims to raise public awareness about the significant advancements and potential applications of quantum science.

Details

Background

Proclamation Journey

• May 2023: Mexico led a resolution to designate 2025 as the year of quantum science.
• November 2023: Nearly 60 countries co-sponsored the resolution, which was adopted by the UNESCO General Conference.
• May 2024: Ghana submitted a draft resolution to the UN General Assembly with support from over 70 countries.
• June 7, 2024: The UN General Assembly officially proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.

Historical Context

• Werner Heisenberg's Contribution: 2025 marks 100 years since German physicist Werner Heisenberg published his groundbreaking paper laying the foundation for quantum mechanics.
• Heisenberg was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics seven years later for his work, including the formulation of the uncertainty principle.

Endorsements and Support

The proclamation has received endorsements from several prestigious organizations:

• International Union of Pure and Applied Physics
• International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry
• International Union of Crystallography
• International Union of History and Philosophy of Science and Technology

Government Initiatives

• India's National Quantum Mission: Announced in April 2023 with a budget of Rs 6,000 crore, this mission aims to develop quantum technologies by 2031. It is managed by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and focuses on four key areas:
  • Quantum computing
  • Quantum communication
  • Quantum sensing and metrology
  • Quantum materials and devices

Key Areas of Impact

• Electronics: Quantum computers can revolutionize electronics by providing unprecedented computational power.
• Clean Energy: They have the potential to optimize energy systems and materials for more efficient and sustainable energy solutions.
• Drug Development: Quantum computing could significantly accelerate the drug discovery process by simulating complex molecular structures and interactions.

Conclusion

The UN's declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology underscores the transformative potential of quantum research and its applications. This initiative aims to foster global awareness and collaboration, paving the way for significant advancements in technology and science.

Sources:

Hindu

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.  The UN's declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology underscores the transformative potential of quantum research and its applications.  Comment. (150 Words)