Quantum Randomness

16 Oct 2025

Quantum Randomness

Indian researchers from the Raman Research Institute (RRI), Bengaluru, have developed and certified truly random numbers.

Key Achievement of Indian Research

  • Breakthrough: RRI researchers generated true random numbers on a commercial quantum computer.
    • Their method is robust to real-world noise and disturbances, moving beyond laboratory-scale setups.
  • Innovation: The team used time-separated measurements of single particles to demonstrate violations of the Leggett-Garg inequality, confirming genuine quantum randomness without relying on large spatial setup

What Are Random Numbers?

  • Random numbers are numbers generated through completely unpredictable processes, not by following any pattern or algorithm.
  • Use: They form the foundation of modern digital security, including encryption keys, passwords, and authentication systems, ensuring protection against hacking by making data impossible to predict or decode,
  • Pseudorandom Numbers: Currently, most systems use pseudorandom numbers, generated by computer algorithms.
    • While secure for now, they are not truly random and may become vulnerable with quantum computing advancements.
  • True Quantum Randomness: True randomness exists in natural processes, particularly in the quantum behaviour of microscopic particles, where outcomes are unpredictable until measured.
  • Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs): A QRNG measures properties of particles, such as photons or electrons, to produce sequences of 0s and 1s that are genuinely random.
  • Certification of Randomness: Device-independent methods, such as those using entanglement or Leggett-Garg inequality violations, certify that the numbers are truly unpredictable

PWOnlyIAS ExtraEdge

  • Leggett-Garg inequality violations check randomness by measuring a quantum particle at different times; if the inequality is violated, the outcomes cannot be predetermined, confirming the number’s genuine quantum randomness.
  • It was proposed by physicists Anthony Leggett and Anupam Garg in 1985.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books

Visit PW Store
online store 1

Significance for Quantum Computing and Digital Security

  • Provides a foundation for hack-proof encryption in the post-quantum era.
  • Ensures device-independent certification of randomness, minimizing vulnerabilities from faulty or biased systems.
  • Positions India as a global leader in quantum cryptography and cybersecurity, aligning with the National Quantum Mission and advancing secure digital infrastructure.

Need help preparing for UPSC or State PSCs?

Connect with our experts to get free counselling & start preparing

Aiming for UPSC?

Download Our App

      
Quick Revise Now !
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

<div class="new-fform">






    </div>

    Subscribe our Newsletter
    Sign up now for our exclusive newsletter and be the first to know about our latest Initiatives, Quality Content, and much more.
    *Promise! We won't spam you.
    Yes! I want to Subscribe.