Indian lab designs quantum algorithm to beat computers, Pg13

Key Highlights:

• An Indian laboratory at BITS Pilani has designed a quantum algorithm that successfully simulated subatomic particle behavior.
• The algorithm ran on a 120-qubit IBM Quantum processor, completing a simulation in 20 seconds that took a classical computer two hours.
• This achievement demonstrates "useful quantum advantage" and is the first from an Indian lab to be listed as 'active' on the Quantum Advantage Tracker.
• The research focuses on understanding the strong nuclear force and has significant implications for high-energy physics.
• India's National Quantum Mission, launched in 2023 with an outlay of ₹6,003 crore, supports such advancements in quantum technology.

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Detailed Insights:

• The quantum algorithm specifically simulated the dynamics of quarks and gluons, which are fundamental particles governed by the strong nuclear force.
• The problem solved by the Indian team is considered one of the few useful problems that have historically been impervious to classical computing methods.
• The Quantum Advantage Tracker, established by IBM and partners in November 2025, serves as a live peer-review platform to validate claims of quantum advantage.
• The algorithm's design is highly scalable, meaning it can be seamlessly applied to quantum computers with a larger number of qubits, such as a 1,000-qubit machine.
• The lead researcher is collaborating with CERN to explore how this quantum approach can enhance simulations in particle physics, where classical methods face limitations.
• While India's National Quantum Mission aims to develop indigenous quantum capabilities, current advanced research often relies on accessing quantum hardware abroad.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Quantum Advantage: The point at which a quantum computer can perform a computational task more efficiently, accurately, or cost-effectively than any known classical computer for a meaningful problem.
• Qubits: The basic unit of quantum information, analogous to a classical bit, but capable of existing in multiple states (0, 1, or both simultaneously) due to superposition.
• Strong Nuclear Force: The most powerful of the four fundamental forces of nature, responsible for binding quarks together within protons and neutrons, and holding atomic nuclei intact.
• IBM Quantum: IBM's comprehensive initiative for quantum computing, encompassing the development of quantum hardware, software (Qiskit), and cloud-based access to quantum processors for research and development.