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- A recent study by IBM emphasizes the rising interest in quantum computing in India, fueled by the active involvement of students, developers, and academic institutions.
- About Quantum Computing:
- Quantum computing is an advanced technology that utilizes quantum mechanics to tackle problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Quantum mechanics, a branch of physics that focuses on the behavior of particles like atoms, electrons, and photons at the molecular and sub-molecular levels, forms the foundation for quantum computing. Key quantum phenomena such as superposition and entanglement enable quantum computers to offer groundbreaking computational abilities.
- Quantum computers can address complex problems in fields like cryptography, simulations, and optimization, which are either unsolvable or take an impractical amount of time for traditional computers to solve.
- Key Features:
- Distinct from Classical Computing: Unlike classical computers, which process information using binary bits (0 or 1), quantum computers employ quantum bits or qubits. Qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously—0, 1, or both at once—thanks to superposition, enabling quantum computers to perform many more calculations in parallel compared to classical systems.
- Example: Imagine a spinning coin; a qubit is like that coin, representing both heads and tails until observed.
- Entanglement: This phenomenon occurs when qubits are linked, no matter the distance between them. Changing the state of one qubit instantly affects the state of the entangled one, leading to faster computation.
- Milestones in Quantum Computing:
- Origins: Richard Feynman first proposed quantum computing in 1982, suggesting that quantum systems could be simulated more efficiently than with traditional computers.
- Key Breakthroughs:
- Shor’s Algorithm (1994): A groundbreaking algorithm that significantly advanced cryptography by factoring large numbers much faster than classical methods.
- Technological Advancements:
- IBM Q System One (2019): The first commercially available quantum computer based on a circuit design.
- Google Sycamore Processor (2019): Demonstrated quantum supremacy by solving a complex task in 200 seconds that would take a classical supercomputer 10,000 years.
- Opposition leaders have criticized the process of selecting the NHRC Chairperson, calling it “fundamentally flawed” and “pre-determined,” pointing to the absence of adequate consultation and consensus in the decision-making process.
- About the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC):
- The NHRC is a statutory body tasked with safeguarding and promoting human rights in India. Its primary goal is to protect the life, liberty, equality, and dignity of individuals. The NHRC ensures the enforcement of rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India and international human rights treaties within the scope of Indian courts.
- It was established on 12th October 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993, and has been amended by the:
- Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2006
- Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019
- The NHRC is aligned with the Paris Principles, adopted by the United Nations in 1993, which provide a framework for the promotion and protection of human rights.
- Composition:
- The NHRC is composed of:
- A Chairperson, who must be a former Chief Justice of India or a former Supreme Court Judge.
- Five full-time members and seven deemed members from various statutory commissions.
- The NHRC is composed of:
- Appointment and Tenure:
- The Chairperson and members are appointed by the President of India based on the recommendations of a six-member Selection Committee, which includes:
- The Prime Minister (Chairperson)
- The Speaker of the Lok Sabha
- The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
- The Leaders of the Opposition in both Houses of Parliament
- The Union Home Minister
- The Chairperson and members serve a three-year term or until they reach the age of 70, whichever is earlier.
- The Chairperson and members are appointed by the President of India based on the recommendations of a six-member Selection Committee, which includes:
- Roles and Functions:
- The NHRC has the powers of a civil court to conduct judicial proceedings.
- It can summon witnesses and demand evidence for its investigations.
- It has the authority to utilize the services of central and state officers or investigative agencies.
- Hawaii's Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, has erupted once again.
- About Kilauea Volcano:
- Kilauea is situated on the southern part of Hawaii's Big Island, within the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, USA. It is the youngest and most active of the Hawaiian shield volcanoes, known for its frequent eruptions. The volcano erupts primarily from vents located at its summit caldera or along rift zones.
- Mythological Significance:
- The central crater, Halemaumau, is considered the home of Pele, the Hawaiian fire goddess, in local mythology.
- Historical Activity:
- Kilauea contained a lava lake up until 1924.
- The volcano has experienced nearly continuous eruptions, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
- Since 1952, there have been 34 recorded eruptions, with continuous eruptions occurring from 1983 to 2018 in the East Rift Zone.
- Key Features:
- Summit Caldera: The summit caldera of Kilauea is a large depression that formed from the partial collapse of the volcano after releasing most of its magma chamber. It spans approximately 3 miles in length and 2 miles in width, covering an area of over 4 square miles.
- Proximity to Mauna Loa: Kilauea's slopes merge seamlessly with those of Mauna Loa, another active Hawaiian shield volcano. Together, they form the region known for hosting the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes.
- What is a Shield Volcano?
- A shield volcano is characterized by broad, gentle slopes, formed by the outpouring of highly fluid basalt lava.
- Features:
- Unlike the steep, conical peaks of composite volcanoes, shield volcanoes have wide, dome-shaped profiles.
- Their eruptions are typically low in explosivity, creating features like cinder cones and spatter cones at the vent.
- Explosive eruptions can occur if water interacts with the lava.
- Examples of shield volcanoes include Hawaiian volcanoes like Kilauea and Mauna Loa.
- Volcanoes in India:
- Barren Island (Andaman Islands): India’s only active volcano.
- Narcondam (Andaman Islands): A dormant volcano.
- Baratang (Andaman Islands): Known for mud volcanoes.
- Deccan Traps (Maharashtra): A vast volcanic plateau formed by ancient eruptions.
- Dhinodhar Hills (Gujarat): An extinct volcano.
- Dhosi Hill (Haryana): An ancient volcanic site with historical significance.