In a landmark decision, the United Nations has proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. This initiative aims to enhance public understanding of quantum science and its myriad applications, fostering a global dialogue on its significance.
The journey to this significant proclamation began in May 2023 when Mexico led the charge with a resolution. By November 2023, nearly 60 countries had joined in support, culminating in its adoption by the UNESCO General Conference. Subsequently, in May 2024, Ghana proposed a draft resolution to the U.N. General Assembly, which garnered support from over 70 nations and was officially proclaimed on June 7, 2024.
The year 2025 marks the centenary of Werner Heisenberg's pivotal paper on quantum mechanics, published in 1925. This foundational work not only established the principles of quantum mechanics but also led to Heisenberg receiving the Nobel Prize in Physics seven years later, making the timing of the proclamation particularly significant.
Numerous international scientific organizations have endorsed this proclamation. Notable supporters include the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, and the International Union of Crystallography, reinforcing the global scientific community's commitment to advancing quantum science.
Quantum science, especially quantum computing, is gaining traction in both public and academic discussions. While fully functional quantum computers are still in development, they promise to transform various sectors, including electronics, clean energy, and pharmaceuticals, owing to their extraordinary computational potential.
In April 2023, the Government of India launched the National Quantum Mission with a substantial budget of Rs 6,000 crore. This initiative, directed by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), spans from 2023 to 2031 and focuses on four key areas: quantum computing, quantum communication, quantum sensing and metrology, and quantum materials and devices.
The U.N. encourages individuals, organizations, educational institutions, and governments to utilize 2025 as a platform to enhance awareness about quantum science and technology. A steering committee is already gearing up to plan global initiatives and events aimed at engaging audiences who may not yet appreciate the importance of this field. An opening ceremony is slated for January 14, 2025, in Berlin, marking the beginning of this significant year.
Q1. What is the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology?
Answer: The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, declared for 2025, aims to elevate public awareness about the significance and applications of quantum science globally.
Q2. How did the initiative for the International Year begin?
Answer: The initiative started with a resolution led by Mexico in May 2023, gaining support from nearly 60 countries before its adoption by UNESCO in November 2023.
Q3. Why is 2025 significant for quantum mechanics?
Answer: The year 2025 marks the centenary of Werner Heisenberg's groundbreaking paper on quantum mechanics, highlighting its historical importance in science.
Q4. What role does India play in quantum science?
Answer: India launched the National Quantum Mission in April 2023, focusing on various quantum technologies with a significant budget to enhance its capabilities in this field.
Q5. What activities are planned for 2025?
Answer: A series of global initiatives and events will be organized to promote quantum science awareness, with an opening ceremony set for January 14, 2025, in Berlin.
Question 1: What year has been declared the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology?
A) 2023
B) 2024
C) 2025
D) 2026
Correct Answer: C
Question 2: Which country led the resolution for the International Year of Quantum Science?
A) Ghana
B) Mexico
C) India
D) Germany
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Who proposed the draft resolution to the U.N. General Assembly?
A) India
B) Mexico
C) Ghana
D) Germany
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What is the budget of India's National Quantum Mission?
A) Rs 4,000 crore
B) Rs 5,000 crore
C) Rs 6,000 crore
D) Rs 7,000 crore
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: When is the opening ceremony for the International Year of Quantum Science scheduled?
A) January 1, 2025
B) January 14, 2025
C) February 14, 2025
D) March 14, 2025
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: Which notable physicist's work is celebrated in the year 2025?
A) Albert Einstein
B) Isaac Newton
C) Niels Bohr
D) Werner Heisenberg
Correct Answer: D
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