Researchers and governments call for Quantum Governance to harness the value of Quantum Science & Technology | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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Researchers and governments call for Quantum Governance to harness the value of Quantum Science & Technology

Posted 09 Jul 2024

2 min read

Recently, the University of Oxford has cautioned against inflated expectations of quantum technologies.

  • In spite of quantum technologies  potential (e.g., quantum computing, quantum sensors, etc.,) it  carries risks of misuse due to potential dual-use applications, especially in digital security. 
  • In this regard, many have called for Quantum Governance to create awareness of its concepts and explore its benefits for humankind.

About Quantum Governance

  • World Economic Forum (WEF) was one of the first organisations to discuss quantum computing governance.
  • ‘Quantum Governance’ framework for this is based on the principles of transparency, inclusiveness, accessibility, non-maleficence, equitability, accountability, and the common good.
  • Significance:
    • Accelerate the development of responsible quantum computing by building trust in the technology.
    • Early ethical consideration by addressing quantum computing ethics during design and development phases.
    • Learning from other technologies by applying ethical principles from AI, nanotech, nuclear, etc.
  • Challenges:
    • Researchers favor open quantum frameworks, while national policies prioritize strong intellectual property protections for quantum technologies.
    • Private sector's profit-driven approach may hinder responsible, open quantum development.
    • There is limited evidence on the impact of  responsible innovation policies in quantum governance.

About Quantum Technologies

  • Quantum Technology is based on the principles of Quantum mechanics developed in the early 20th century to describe nature at the scale of atoms and elementary particles.
  • Application: secure communication, disaster management through better prediction, computing, simulation, chemistry, healthcare, cryptography, etc.

Initiatives taken by India

  • National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications, 2023.
  • 21 Quantum hubs in the country and 4 Quantum research parks across India.

 

  • Tags :
  • World Economic Forum
  • Quantum Governance
  • National Mission on Quantum Technologies
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