Why in news
- India successfully demonstrated its first 5.56 km free-space Quantum Key Distribution link between BISAG-N and IIT Gandhinagar.
Key terms
Quantum Key Distribution
A secure communication method that uses quantum mechanics to exchange cryptographic keys.
Post-Quantum Cryptography
Cryptographic algorithms designed to remain secure against decryption by classical and quantum computers.
Quantum Bit Error Rate
The percentage of erroneous bits in a quantum channel used to detect eavesdropping attempts.
Free-Space Optics
Optical communication technology that transmits data wirelessly through air using light beams.
What is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)?
- QKD uses quantum mechanics principles, such as photon superposition and entanglement, to exchange cryptographic keys securely.
- Any attempt by an eavesdropper to intercept the quantum channel irreversibly alters the quantum states, alerting the communicating parties.
Key details of the trial
- Achieved a stable Quantum Bit Error Rate below 5 percent with key generation rates between 230 and 260 bits per second.
- Integrated hardware-based QKD over free-space optical channels with software-based Post-Quantum Cryptography on the Vedic Kavach platform.
- Demonstrates the feasibility of secure point-to-point quantum links without relying on physical fiber infrastructure.
Why it matters
- Protects critical infrastructure and defence communications against future quantum computing decryption threats.
- Lays the technological foundation for satellite-based quantum communications across long distances.
Prelims facts
- QKD uses quantum principles to detect interception instantly during key exchange.
Mains discussion
- Enhancing strategic cyber defense through hybrid hardware-software quantum resilience.
Source: PIB Press Release
Same topic · past papers
UPSC has asked this before
These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.
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2026 · Q49 · General Studies · 2 marks
Which of the following statements with regard to the National Quantum Mission (NQM) is/are correct? 1. It aims at developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits. 2. Its implementation includes setting up of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in academic and national R&D institutes across India. Select the answer using the code given below: -
2025 · Q47 · General Studies · 2 marks
Consider the following statements: I. It is expected that Majorana l chip will enable quantum computing. II. Majorana l chip has been introduced by Amazon Web Services (AWS). III. Deep learning is a subset of machine learning. Which of the statements given above are correct? -
2017 · Q72 · General Studies · 2 marks
Consider the following statements: The nation-wide 'Soil Health Card Scheme' aims at 1. expanding the cultivable area under irrigation. 2. enabling the banks to assess the quantum of loans to be granted to farmers on the basis of soil quality. 3. checking the overuse of fertilizers in farmlands. Which of the above statements is/are correct? -
2015 · Q15 · GS III · 12 marks
Discuss the Namami Gange and National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) programmes and causes of mixed results from the previous schemes. What quantum leaps can help preserve the river Ganga better than incremental inputs? -
2026 · Q51 · General Studies · 2 marks
Mr. X, a senior officer, was overseeing a critical vaccination programme during a pandemic. He found that a private service provider responsible for vaccine distribution was compromising on quality to make profits. Despite immense pressure to manage the issue due to vested interests, he raised his voice based on the principles of public administration which he learnt during various training programmes attended across his career. He reported the issue to the appropriate vigilance authority and halted the contract to ensure citizen welfare. Which one among the following principles of public administration was most strongly demonstrated by Mr. X's actions?