India, with its ambitious plans in the quantum computing domain, has been making significant strides. The government’s allocation of INR 6000 crore towards the National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications is a testament to its commitment. However, the real challenge lies in accessing quantum computers, which are pivotal for advancing India’s quantum aspirations. Amazon Web Services (AWS), with its Amazon Braket service, is stepping in to bridge this gap, ensuring that developers and researchers can test their quantum computing algorithms efficiently.
Key Highlights:
- Indian government’s allocation of INR 6000 crore for quantum technologies.
- Amazon Braket provides access to four major quantum computers and a quantum computing simulator.
- AWS’s collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to establish the Quantum Computing Applications Lab (QCAL).
- QCAL provides quantum computing as a service on the cloud to government sectors.
- AWS’s initiatives in building a quantum workforce in India in collaboration with partners like Mahindra University and QPIAI.
Diving Deeper:
India’s quantum journey is marked by significant investments in research, development, and workforce training. The National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits. However, the expected delivery of these quantum computers is set for the next eight years. This is where Amazon Braket becomes a game-changer. It allows developers and researchers to test their quantum algorithms on simulators and quantum hardware, ensuring confidence in the algorithm’s performance before its actual run on a quantum computer.
Collaboration with MeitY:
AWS’s commitment to India’s quantum journey is further solidified with its partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Together, they have set up the Quantum Computing Applications Lab (QCAL). This initiative is unique in India, offering quantum computing as a service on the cloud to various government ministries and departments. QCAL calls for proposals from academicians, researchers, institutes, startups, and developers, aiming to solve quantum problems. The response has been overwhelming, with numerous applications received and greenlighted across multiple domains.
Building a Quantum Workforce:
India’s quantum vision is not just limited to technology but also extends to building a skilled quantum workforce. The NQM emphasizes training the young population in quantum technology, fostering collaborations with international partners, and accelerating technological advancements. AWS aligns with this vision, introducing quantum-specific programs, courses, and curriculums in partnership with institutions like Mahindra University and QPIAI. These courses target both working professionals and students, ensuring that India has a skilled quantum computing workforce in the future.
Democratising Access to Quantum Computers:
Amazon Braket is a significant step in democratizing access to quantum computers in India. It offers access to four major quantum computers or quantum hardware and a quantum computing simulator. AWS’s partnerships with companies like IonQ, Rigetti, OQC, Xanadu, and Quera ensure that quantum computers are more accessible to the masses. The simulator plays a crucial role, allowing for cost-effective and accurate initial development stages before transitioning to an actual quantum computer.
Summary:
AWS, with its Amazon Braket service and collaborations, is playing a pivotal role in advancing India’s quantum computing journey. By providing access to quantum computers, fostering collaborations, and emphasizing workforce training, AWS is ensuring that India is well-equipped to navigate the quantum future. The steps taken by AWS in partnership with the Indian government and other institutions highlight the potential of quantum computing and its transformative impact on various sectors in the country.
