Quantum Key Distribution

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Context: Quantum Key Distribution system was demonstrated by DRDO and IIT Delhi scientists.

Details:

For the 1st time in India, the Scientists from Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi successfully demonstrated the Quantum Key Distribution system.
The technology displayed a Quantum Key Distribution link between Prayagraj and Vindhyachal in Uttar Pradesh; the distance between them was 100 kilometers.

Quantum Key Distribution:

Quantum key distribution is a secure communication method involving components of quantum mechanics.
It enables sending and receiving parties to produce a secret password known only to them.
Secure Communication - Quantum key distribution allows the two communicating users to detect the presence of any third party.
Quantum key distribution is only used to produce and distribute a key, not to transmit any message data. This key can be encrypted and then be transmitted over a standard communication channel.

Steps taken by the Government:

The Union Government has inaugurated Quantum Communication Lab.
Government is actively supporting indigenously developed Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) solutions.
The Government has allocated $1 billion for the National Mission on Quantum Technologies.

Expected Outcome:

It will help in making communication lines safe and secure.
Open a new chapter in India’s growth
Attract new start-ups in this sector.
Support India’s claim of becoming a Superpower in the Science and technology field.
Ensure safety of satellite communication lines.

Challenges:

Low spending on Research - In India, Public expenditures on research have been stagnant between 0.6-0.7percent of GDP over the past 2 decades.
Inadequate support of Private sector - In most countries, the private sector carries out the bulk of research. However, in India, the government is the primary source of research funding and primary user of these funds.
State government support lacking - Government expenditure on Research is almost entirely by the central government.
Lack of Skilled manpower in India.

Way forward:

With this success, India has demonstrated indigenous technology of secure key transfer. It will help in establishing a safe and secure communication line for military and intelligence departments.
This technology will allow security agencies to plan a suitable quantum communication network for ensuring safety and unity of the nation.