Science & TechnologySource: The Hindu
India’s Transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography
Thursday, 28 May 2026
Read Original ArticleKey Points
India is set to enhance its cyber security by transitioning to Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), following task force recommendations. This move is crucial for UPSC aspirants, especially for General Studies Paper 3, focusing on security and technology. Last Updated: 28-05-2026
Key Facts About Post-Quantum Cryptography
- Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) is designed to secure data against threats from quantum computers.
- The Department of Science & Technology (DST) has initiated recommendations for PQC adoption.
- Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) sectors to start transition by 2027.
- Priority systems migration expected by 2028, with full adoption by 2029.
- Quantum computers pose risks to current encryption systems using Shor’s Algorithm.
- PQC relies on complex mathematical problems, not quantum physics.
India's Strategic Cybersecurity Enhancement
The transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography is pivotal for safeguarding India's digital infrastructure against emerging quantum threats. This move aligns with India's strategic goal to fortify its cyber defenses, ensuring secure banking, governmental, and military communications. As quantum computing advances, maintaining robust digital security is crucial for economic stability and international competitiveness.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 3: Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management.
- Prelims: Questions on PQC definitions, key features, and mathematical foundations.
- Mains: Analytical themes on cyber security threats and technological advancements.
- Essay Paper: Topics on technological impacts on national security.
FAQ Section
- What is Post-Quantum Cryptography? Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) refers to cryptographic algorithms designed to be secure against both classical and quantum computers.
- Why is Post-Quantum Cryptography important? PQC is crucial for protecting sensitive data from the potential threats posed by quantum computers, which can break current encryption standards.
- What are the key features of PQC? PQC utilizes complex mathematical problems, such as lattice-based and code-based cryptography, to ensure data security against quantum threats.
Detailed Coverage
- Task force by DST recommends PQC adoption in India’s critical sectors.
- Transition to begin by 2027, with full implementation by 2029.
- Quantum computers pose risks to banking networks, government communications, and internet security.
- PQC aims to secure systems against both classical and quantum threats.
- Unlike Quantum Cryptography, PQC does not depend on quantum physics.
- Lattice-Based Cryptography is a key foundation of PQC.
- It relies on the difficulty of solving high-dimensional lattice problems.
- Code-Based Cryptography focuses on decoding random linear error-correcting codes.
- Known for strong security but requires larger key sizes.
- Multivariate Polynomial Cryptography deals with multivariate polynomial equations.
- Primarily used in digital signature schemes.
- Hash-Based Cryptography uses cryptographic hash functions for security.
- Applied mainly in digital signatures and is well understood.
- Transitioning to PQC is essential for enhancing cybersecurity.
- Task force recommendations highlight urgency in adapting to quantum threats.
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