Context

• Quantum computing differs from traditional computing, which uses ‘bits’ – binary digits of 0s and 1s – to represent information. However, quantum computing uses quantum bits, or ‘qubits’, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously, instead of just two states (i.e., 0 and 1). 
• This property of qubits, known as superposition allows quantum computers to perform many computational calculations orders of magnitude faster than classical computing 
• Further quantum computing also borrows inspiration from another property of quantum mechanics called entanglement wherein two qubits could be connected in such a way that the state of one qubit intrinsically affects the state of the other qubit. 

Future Potential

• Quantum computing is a relatively young domain, and while practical quantum computers are now commercially available, they are currently limited to performing very specific types of calculations. 
• However, researchers believe that quantum computers have the potential to revolutionise fields such as data sciences, artificial intelligence, and decision sciences. 

Impact of Quantum Computing

• Faster data analysis in industrial data science applications
• Improved machine learning outcomes
• Improved optimisation for complex problems
• Improved Industrialisation
• Improved process efficiencies in digital transformation.

Implications for practice and policy

• Quantum computing is an advanced area where research and development are still at a nascent stage. However, this presents an opportunity for India to establish well-funded Research Centres of Excellence in the leading technological institutions. 
• Long-term schemes of the Department of Science and Technology could possibly be introduced whereby strategic infrastructure and manpower training projects can be funded in the established technology engineering institutions. 
• Furthermore, quantum computing also needs clear and sustained policy and governance since it deals with new levels of data and computation. Frameworks surrounding security, transparency, accountability, fairness, and ethical use of quantum computing systems also need to evolve. 
• The skills of the existing workforce need to be geared towards better understanding data science and decision science, so that they can take advantage of the wider quantum computing domain over the coming years. 
• Quantum computing is a global field and collaboration is crucial for making progress. International funding agencies could develop joint project funding schemes whereby collaborations can be fastened to enable faster development in this space. 

Conclusion

• The quantum computing domain is an area that the government must focus on because it will be heavily dependent on exploiting information assets within and outside the organisations in the long-term. 
• There is a significant opportunity for India to move towards that direction as it is envisioned that strategic investments in research, development, and training mechanisms should be created. 
• This may enable improved capability for leveraging and exploiting this domain for the benefit of citizens and the nation going forward.

https://coruzant.com/quantum/impact-of-quantum-on-the-digital-economy-and-society/