QUANTUM COMPUTING – G11

SCRIPT – PRESENTATION ON
QUANTUM COMPUTING
INTRODUCTION
*Brief introductory video*
ORIGINS OF QUANTUM COMPUTING
 (Referencing introductory video) Quantum computing/technology –
approach to computation which relies on the principles of quantum
mechanics to solve problems.
 Significantly speeds up tasks which cannot be managed by classical
computers, such as complex calculations, large datasets
 Emergent concept which materialized in the early 1980s – rooted in the
theoretical framework of quantum mechanics – the intersection of the
former and computer science
 Richard Feynman – theorized that a quantum system (i.e. quantum
computer) would be imperative to efficiently model another quantum
system.
 Impossible with classical computers as it requires resources which scale
exponentially with the size of the system – only feasible with quantum
computers
 Paul Benioff – proposed the quantum Turing machine – quantum
mechanical version of a theoretical model of a computer.
 David Deustch – 1985 – published a paper outlining the concept of a
universal quantum computer, took idea further, suggesting that quantum
logic gates can function similarly to binary quantum gates in traditional
digital computing.
 Later: Shor’s algorithm 1995 (quantum algorithm that could factor large
numbers – overpowers public-key cryptography) Grover’s algorithm 1996
(quantum algorithm for searching unsorted databases in a time
exceptionally lesser that than taken by a classical computer)
 Practical implementations followed, with the first quantum computer being
built in 1998; 2 – qubit nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) quantum
computer.
Small-scale, short-lived, yet demonstrated the fundamentals of quantum
computation.
 2019, Google AI and NASA claimed to have achieved "quantum
supremacy" with a 54-qubit machine (picture on slide).

*Aim and agenda slides*

1 - FUNDAMENTALS OF QUANTUM
COMPUTING (BASIC FUNDAMENTALS OF QUANTUM
COMPUTING)

Introduction:
A well-known physicist known as Richard Feynman once said, “If you think you
understand quantum mechanics, you don’t understand quantum mechanics.”
Even Nobel Prize-winning scientists said this. So, if it sounds weird today… you're
not alone! No to worry! Going forward, my friends and I will be doing our
absolute best to explain this concept to you.
Classical vs Quantum Computing:
We know computers to be an integral part of our lives. We use them everywhere
we go and whenever we can. For homework, research and even PowerPoint
presentations. They help solve our problems. Now, imagine a colossal problem
that not even a computer can solve. What is humanity to do? This is where
quantum computing comes in.
To explain quantum computing, we’ll have to go back to the bare bones of
classical computing. Bits – the most basic unit of information in computing.
Now, a normal computer uses bits known as zeroes and ones. A quantum
computer uses something called qubits.
What is a Qubit?
So then, what is a qubit? I could say that it exists in a superposition of states and
that it is implemented using atoms, photons, and superconductors, but where’s
the fun in that?
Instead, let me say this: qubits are the same as bits, except for the fact that they
can be both zero and one all at once. How do they do this? Well, my friends that
is done by a simple factor known as superposition.
Superposition:
Don’t fall asleep yet, the fun has only just begun! To explain what superposition
is, you could equate it to a coin – it consists of heads and tails like how bits can
either be zero or one. Now, imagine you flip the coin, and it begins to spin. You
would not be able to tell whether the coin is heads or tails until it stops. Qubits
are very much like a spinning coin – they are both zero and one at the same
time, until they are measured.
Ergo, with a pair of qubits, I could get so many more combinations: 0 and 1, 1and
0, 0 and 0 or 1 and 1. With just two qubits, I can create four different
combinations – out of which, I only require one.
Now, I have my qubits lined up, but in order to actually solve that gigantic
problem I mentioned earlier, I need to connect them with one another. To do this,
we would have to entangle them.
Entanglement:
When I join two qubits to create a pair of them, I entangle them. It is as simple as
that. When two qubits become entangled, they act like a pair – even if they’re far
apart.
Imagine sending two boxes to different cities – one has a red glove, one a blue
glove.
You open one box and see red – you instantly know the other one’s blue. That’s
how entangled qubits behave – knowing one gives you instant information about
the other.
I now have pairs of qubits at the ready, but I cannot solve my humongous
problem just yet. I still need to place these qubits in the right areas – with the
help of quantum gates.
Quantum Gates:
To tell a quantum computer what to do, we use quantum gates. But these aren’t
gates like fences – they’re just little steps that help change the qubits. We don’t
type normal code – we change the qubits using these steps, kind of like turning
the pieces in a Rubik’s cube.
At long last, we can finally solve that big problem from before – all with the help
of quantum computing!
Why is it important?
So why are we learning all this? Because quantum computers could help us solve
huge problems – like discovering new medicines, fixing traffic, or predicting the
weather better.
They won’t replace our phones, but they’ll be amazing tools for science and
solving tough challenges. My friends will be delving deeper into this topic, so
stick around for that!
It might sound strange… but that’s what makes it exciting. Quantum computing
is helping us think in new ways – and maybe, one day, it’ll help us change the
world!

2.1 - IMPORTANCE OF QUANTUM

COMPUTING
Slide 1: Why quantum computing matters
Traditional or classical computers process data in bits (zeros and ones). But
quantum computers use qubits, which can be both zero and one at the same
time, thanks to principles of quantum mechanics like superposition and
entanglement.
This means they’re not just faster, but that they’re fundamentally different.
They can handle massive amounts of complex data and perform operations that
would take classical computers years or even centuries.
Quantum computing is assured to transform entire industries:
From medicine, where it helps discover new drugs,
To science, by modelling complex systems like climate,
To cybersecurity, AI, and machine learning, where it enhances predictions and
optimizations.

Slide 2: Problem-solving
One of the biggest strengths of quantum computing is its ability to solve
problems that are simply too complex or time-consuming for current computers.
It can process non-linear data, which is data that doesn’t follow predictable
patterns. This allows it to solve real-world problems like traffic equilibrium
optimization, where cities aim to reduce congestion dynamically, or calculating
the probability of moon landings under various physical conditions.
Some problems we face today are so complex that even our fastest
supercomputers would need centuries to solve them. Quantum computers offer a
chance to drastically reduce that time.
These include challenges in:
 Stock portfolio optimization, where financial risk needs to be balanced
 Protein modelling, which is key in fighting diseases – could’ve been used
during COVID-19
 Energy usage and grid optimization – the exponential growth of the global
population has led to the problem of ‘energy source optimization’, which is
difficult for current computers to tackle

Slide 3: Medicine
Quantum computing can also revolutionize medicine.
By simulating molecules at the quantum level, it allows us to understand how
drugs will behave even before they’re created in a lab. This can speed up drug
discovery significantly.
Classical computers cannot simulate atoms and molecules with the same
accuracy. But quantum computers can, which could lead to:
 Faster development of medicines
 More precise cancer treatments
 And even the creation of new materials, such as superconductors or
advanced batteries (less toxic)
o Implantable Medical Devices - pacemakers, and insulin pumps

o Portable Diagnostic Equipment – in remote areas or emergencies

o Wearable Health Monitors - smartwatches or ECG monitors

In short, it can help us unlock a level of understanding in biology and chemistry.

Slide 4: Science
Science is another major area where quantum computing shines.
Traditional computers struggle to fully model things like Earth’s climate,
planetary systems, or subatomic physics because they involve huge amounts of
data and interconnected variables
QC gives us better models for complex systems, especially those that involve
many variables changing at once, such as:
 Climate change models
 Global warming projections - higher accuracy
 Space and physics simulations
Thanks to its power, quantum computing allows scientists to simulate and
predict outcomes with a level of accuracy and speed that classical systems just
can’t match.
These improved models help scientists and policymakers make better long-term
environmental forecasts, such as predicting the effects of carbon emissions or
evaluating the potential impact of policy decisions.

Slide 5: Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity. Quantum computing is a double-edged sword here.
On one hand, its power could Quantum computers are so powerful that they
could break existing encryption systems including RSA and ECC, which currently
secure everything from online banking to government communications.
On the other hand, it’s also driving the shift to quantum-safe cryptography (new
systems designed to resist quantum attacks).
So, while it presents a threat, it also holds the key to securing our future digital
world and protecting our digital infrastructure, which includes cloud data,
financial records, healthcare systems, and even military communications. In fact,
governments (including India) and tech companies are already investing in post-
quantum encryption to stay ahead.

Slide 6: AI
And lastly, AI and machine learning benefit enormously from quantum
computing.
It can speed up the training of machine learning models greatly, which normally
require massive data sets and time to learn. Whereas, traditional AI systems
require significant time and computing power to train on large datasets.
Quantum computing also:
 Improves logistics, finance, and supply chain operations – efficient routes
and investment strategies, classical computers often get stuck trying to
compare all possible combinations which is something quantum systems
handle better.
 Enhances prediction models, making AI systems smarter
 And enables quicker data classification, such as in image or speech
recognition
Imagine AI that learns in minutes what today’s models take weeks to process.
That’s the kind of leap quantum technology promises.

2.2 - IMPACT OF QUANTUM COMPUTING

(ability to influence daily life)
An emergent technology, quantum computing holds limitless scope for discovery
and is now characterized by rapid technological advancements, though still in its
early stages.
Despite its immense potential, quantum computing is not yet ready for
mainstream use, and remains largely experimental. Right now, quantum
computers are not part of daily life in the way classical computing is, being large,
expensive, and fragile; however, the concepts behind them are laying the
groundwork for future applications that could significantly impact daily life, from
healthcare to logistics.

1. EDUCATION
 Quantum computing has the potential to analyse of educational data at
high speeds, enabling personalized learning pathways that adapt to
individual needs and progress
- It may supersede the limits of personalization achieved by classical
systems in the future. It proves especially potent when dealing with
large, complex datasets (big data).
- The notable increase in computational speed or efficiency – coined
quantum acceleration - can enhance the ability of AI tutors to
understand and respond to student needs, even in complex or
ambiguous situations.
- Faster processing of data from millions of students, hyper-
personalised curricula, advanced pattern recognition, and real-time
insights

 Quantum computing can help design and adapt curricula to stay relevant
in a rapidly changing world – includes teaching aids such as simulations.
Faster processing could allow for hyper-realistic simulations in biology,
chemistry, and physics for immersive learning. Manoeuvres which allow
students to accustom to this emerging field include:
 - Redesigning curricula in physics, computer science, and
mathematics to include quantum principles (e.g., qubits,
superposition, entanglement).
- Adapting teaching methods to move beyond traditional lectures
toward project-based learning, interactive simulations, and cross-
disciplinary instruction (since quantum computing lies at the
intersection of multiple fields).
- Incorporating ethics, policy, and application-focused content to help
students grasp both the power and implications of quantum
technologies.

 Quantum computing is reshaping how students learn, conduct research,

and prepare for careers, especially in technical fields; quantum
programming environments (addressed later), online courses and
certifications, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and so on make this
feasible.

 Platforms like IBM Quantum Composer and Microsoft Azure Quantum allow
regular users to run quantum circuits via the cloud, right from a web
browser; they allow students to:
- Write and run algorithms
- Simulate quantum circuits
- Compare classical and quantum performance
Such environments drive quantum literacy into homes and classrooms,
providing enriching hands-on experiences.
IIT Madras, for example, has developed a program to introduce
quantum computing concepts to professionals and students, with
hands-on demonstrations on IBM's quantum hardware using Qiskit.

2. SMARTPHONE SECURITY
How do you think your smartphones keep information secure? (Encryption of
data – is it sufficient to ensure that data is fully secure and not vulnerable to
leaks or breaches? Quantum technology overcomes this.)
Most current systems use PRNGs – pseudo-random number generators – which
are established on mathematical algorithms, and can be predicted or hacked in
theory. Quantum randomness, on the other hand, is impossible to predict, even
with full knowledge of the system. QRNGs are used as an alternative.
QRNG: Quantum random number generator – uses the unpredictable nature of
quantum mechanics, such as the behaviour of a photon, to generate truly
random numbers.
 Daily life:
Some smartphones – especially in South Korea, like the Samsung Galaxy
Quantum series exclusive to the South Korean market – contain built-in
QRNG chips developed by companies such as ID Quantique, which help
generate encryption keys used for:
- Lock screen PINs
 - Mobile banking apps
- Secure messaging
- Any app that uses encryption or authentication
E.G. Upon opening a banking app, phones might use a hardware-level
quantum process to create a truly unique and random encryption key in
lieu of a software-generated code to secure the session.
 Some apps or cloud services are starting to access QRNGs via the internet
via APIs (Application Programming Interface – behaves as a messenger/set
of rules which allows different software application to communicate)
 Apps you use might already be tapping into cloud-based quantum
randomness to secure things like:
- Password recovery systems
- Secure login codes (2FA)
- Identity verification sessions
 Helps put and end to predictable code generation or repeated key
patterns, which are common vulnerabilities.
 Better security without any intervention, no app installation required as it
is at the OS/hardware level.

3. SHOPPING AND PROMOTIONS

 Some companies are experimenting with quantum-generated randomness
for things like lottery systems, promotional draws, randomised discount
systems, customer giveaway outcomes, or even blockchain-based (Web3)
commerce, ensuring fairness in chance-based events alike.
 Scepticism of bias or tampering may arise – quantum computing
guarantees that this does not occur, generating entirely random outputs
and bolstering customer trust.
 Some companies - including startups like ANU QRNG, Quantum Origin, and
qRand - provide services that generate randomness using quantum
physical processes.
An example includes ID Quantique’s Quantis used for lotteries and
gaming:
- ID Quantique’s “Quantis” QRNG (reiterate full form) is used by major
national lotteries and gaming companies.
- Quantis operates on quantum optics — a photon traveling through a
beam splitter has a fundamentally unpredictable outcome (detected as
0 or 1).
- There are two possible paths a photon can take in a device like a beam
splitter.
- Each detection of a photon by a sensor yields one random bit.
- Detection means the detectors registers because it sensed a photon.
- The outcome (0 or 1) depends on which detector registered, indicating
the photon’s path.
- This measurement collapses the photon’s quantum state (refer back to
superposition) and produces a random bit.

ANALOGY:
 - Imagine a game of chance, where the photon either goes left or right,
and two “cameras” are watching.
- Whichever camera sees the photon first is the detection event.
- That event becomes a random yes/no (0 or 1) answer, which can be
used to create random numbers.

4. CONTENT PERSONALISATION
 Some quantum-inspired methods are being tested in content
personalization, like TV platforms testing quantum-inspired math to
diversify recommendations more efficiently. It might affect what you see
when scrolling through Netflix, YouTube, or Spotify, but subtly, behind the
scenes.
MECHANISM:
 Traditionally, such platforms make use of:
- Collaborative filtering (what people similar to you liked)
- Content-based filtering (what the content is about)
- Matrix factorization (a type of collaborative filtering algorithm using
matrices) and deep learning (subset of ML which makes use of artificial
neural networks)

 Platforms like Netflix or YouTube use recommender systems — algorithms

that predict what you’ll want to watch next based on past behaviour.
 However, their efficiency is reaching its limits:
- Resource-intensive - requiring massive server farms
- Sometimes lead to narrow personalization (echo chambers)
- Struggle with cold-start problems (e.g., what to show a new user)

 Quantum-inspired algorithms (based on concepts like quantum annealing or

quantum walks) help in:
 This is where quantum-inspired algorithms come into play, based on concepts
in quantum mechanics such as quantum annealing or quantum walks.
QUANTUM ANNEALING - computational method used for finding the ground
state (lowest energy configuration) of a quantum system, often applied to
optimization problems.
QUANTUM WALKS - representing a particle's movement on a graph
according to quantum mechanical principles

- Finding better combinations of content across categories faster

- Sampling more diverse options that you might like but haven't seen before
- Solving optimization problems more efficiently (e.g., ranking millions of videos
in milliseconds)

BENEFITS:
1. More surprise suggestions, breaking habit and normal routines due to the
frequent and broad sampling of quantum systems.
2. Faster, smoother browsing as content loads quicker due to quantum-
enhanced optimisation, reducing latency (lag)
 3. More fairness, diversity of content, regional equity, allowing the discovery
of underrepresented genres or voices and ensuring fair representation of
creators.

3 - POTENTIAL OF QUANTUM COMPUTING IN

CHANGING OUR LIVES
Quantum Computing’s Potential Across Sectors
Quantum computing has the potential to have major implications on our lives.
While the technology is still developing, it has the potential to influence almost
every aspect of our lives. Today, I’ll explain seven areas where quantum
computing could make a noticeable impact: materials, logistics, weather
forecasting, finance, renewable energy, manufacturing, and agriculture.

1. Industries and Materials

Let’s begin with materials. Every new generation of technology depends on the
materials we have available to us whether that’s lighter metals for airplanes,
stronger composites for construction, or new compounds for electronics.
Right now, much of material discovery is slow and experimental. Quantum
computing could change that by simulating molecules and chemical reactions
with high precision. This means we could design better superconductors, more
efficient batteries, or even biodegradable plastics, without years of trial and
error. The benefit here isn’t just scientific curiosity it’s about accelerating
innovation across almost every industry.

2. Logistics
Next, logistics. Supply chains are incredibly complex, involving routes, delivery
times, vehicle capacities, and even unexpected disruptions like traffic or weather.
Traditional optimization tools can only get so far because of the sheer number of
possibilities.
Quantum computers are particularly suited for these kinds of optimization
challenges. They could calculate the most efficient delivery routes in real time,
help companies reduce fuel costs, and even cut down on carbon emissions. On a
larger scale, they could improve disaster response ensuring that medical
supplies or food aid reach people faster when time really matters.

3. Weather Forecasting
Weather is something we all rely on, yet forecasting remains one of the most
difficult problems in science. The atmosphere is a chaotic system, and small
uncertainties can grow into major errors in predictions.
With quantum computing, researchers hope to model these complex systems
more accurately. Better forecasts would mean farmers know the right time to
plant and harvest. Cities could prepare earlier for storms or floods. And scientists
could run more detailed climate models to understand long-term changes. The
impact here is straightforward: better forecasts save lives, protect infrastructure,
and reduce costs.

4. Financial Services
The financial sector is another area where speed and complexity matter. Market
behaviour depends on countless variables—interest rates, global events,
consumer confidence and analysing them all quickly is difficult.
Quantum computing could make risk analysis and fraud detection faster and
more reliable. It could also help optimize investment portfolios or stress-test
financial systems against different scenarios. In practice, this could mean more
stable markets, fewer systemic risks, and tools that help businesses and
individuals make better financial decisions.

5. Renewable Energy
Quantum computing also has a role to play in the clean energy transition. On the
materials side, it could help us design better solar cells or more durable
batteries. On the systems side, it could improve how we manage power grids,
especially since renewables like solar and wind are variable by nature.
Imagine being able to balance supply and demand in real time with far greater
accuracy. That would make renewable energy more reliable and affordable,
accelerating the move away from fossil fuels.

6. Manufacturing
Manufacturing is another area that stands to benefit. Companies could use
quantum simulations to design products more efficiently, cutting down on costly
prototypes. Production processes themselves could also be optimized to reduce
waste and improve quality.
Combined with automation and robotics, this could lead to factories that are far
more adaptive, therefore able to respond to demand quickly without excess
costs. For industries like automotive or electronics, that kind of flexibility is
becoming increasingly valuable.

7. Agriculture
Finally, let’s talk about agriculture. Feeding a growing population while
conserving resources is one of the biggest challenges of this century. Quantum
computing could help by analysing soil conditions, weather data, and crop
genetics together, creating more precise recommendations for farmers.
That might mean better yields with less water, less fertilizer, and lower
environmental impact. For farmers, this translates into higher efficiency; for
societies, it means stronger food security.
4 – INDIA'S POSITION IN THE QUANTUM
COMPUTING RACE
Slide 1 – Introduction

Quantum computing is an emerging field that leverages the principles of

quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, to solve problems
that classical computers struggle with. While countries like the United States,
China, the European Union, and Canada currently lead the field, India is
positioning itself as a rising player.

Through focused investments, national programs, and collaborations between

academia and industry, India is building the foundation for growth in this domain.
In this presentation, I’ll walk you through where India currently stands, major
government initiatives, key academic institutions, industry involvement, and the
career opportunities and challenges ahead.

Slide 2 – Government Initiatives

Several government agencies are actively supporting the development of

quantum technologies in India. These include the Department of Science and
Technology, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, DRDO, and
ISRO. Their work spans quantum communication, sensing, cryptography, and
metrology.

The scale of India’s quantum mission, which involves an investment of

approximately $1 billion, highlights how seriously the government views the
strategic importance of quantum technology for defence, cybersecurity, and
economic competitiveness.

Slide 3 – National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications

(NM-QTA)

In the Union Budget of 2020, the Government of India announced the National
Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications, or NM-QTA.

With a budget allocation of ₹8,000 crore over five years, the mission focuses on
three main areas:

1. Advancing fundamental science, technology development, and applied

research

2. Building a skilled workforce and encouraging entrepreneurship through

support for startups

3. Using quantum principles to solve complex challenges in areas such as

computing, communication, cryptography, imaging, chemistry, and
mechanics
The slide also highlights potential applications in fields like aerospace, weather
prediction, secure communications, financial systems, healthcare, agriculture,
and education.

By investing in quantum technologies, India has the potential to become one of

the few countries with a competitive edge in this transformative field, unlocking
both economic growth and stronger global influence.

Slide 4 – Academic Leadership

India’s academic institutions play a critical role in driving quantum research and
education:

 The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore hosts the Quantum

Information and Computing Lab

 IIT Madras has established the Centre for Quantum Information,

Communication, and Computing

 IIT Bombay offers courses and research opportunities in quantum

computing

 TIFR Mumbai continues to conduct advanced research in quantum physics

 ISI Kolkata is actively working in quantum computing and cryptography

These institutions are helping build the talent pipeline that will support the
growth of this field in India.

Slide 5 – Research Centres and Startups

India’s quantum ecosystem also includes a mix of research centers, startups, and
major industry players:

 CDAC has developed a quantum emulator

 DRDO is working on secure quantum key distribution systems

 QNu Labs, based in Bengaluru, is India’s first quantum cybersecurity

startup

 BosonQ Psi is applying quantum simulations to aerospace and automotive

sectors

 Large IT firms like TCS Research, Infosys, and IBM India are also exploring
collaborations and research in quantum computing

This blend of government institutions, established companies, and emerging

startups indicates a promising, though still growing, ecosystem.

Slide 6 – Career Opportunities

Quantum computing is opening up exciting career opportunities in both research
and applied fields. Some emerging roles include:

 Quantum Research Scientist

 Quantum Software Engineer

 Quantum Cryptographer

Industries like IT, defence, finance, and academia are starting to hire for these
specialized roles. Educational pathways are also expanding, with online
certifications offered by IIT Madras and NPTEL, along with master's and doctoral
programs at leading institutions like the IITs and IISc.

Slide 7 – Challenges and Benefits

There are still several challenges to overcome. These include the high cost of
building quantum hardware, a limited pool of skilled professionals, and
infrastructure gaps.

Despite these hurdles, the potential benefits are significant. Quantum

technologies can provide a strategic advantage in defence and cybersecurity,
create new economic opportunities, and drive innovation. A strong presence in
this field would also enhance India’s scientific and technological independence in
the long run.

Slide 8 – India’s Quantum Computing Scenario

In conclusion, India is currently in the early to developing stage of the global

quantum race. However, initiatives like the National Mission, academic
leadership, and increasing industry participation are building a strong base.

CONCLUSION
 Rooted in unusual, yet potent and powerful principles of quantum
mechanics
 Potential to revolutionise how we solve complex problems across
industries
 Ability to process vast data simultaneously through qubits, advance
fields like healthcare, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence
 Still emerging – future influence on daily life – personalised medicine to
secure digital systems – profound
 India: initiatives e.g. National Quantum Mission and growing academic
and startup ecosystems - positioning itself as a key player in this global
race.
 As the technology matures, quantum computing could not just enhance
our lives but redefine them entirely, making it a crucial area of
investment, innovation, and education.