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250 words
Topic

Critical Minerals

Critical minerals are elements that are essential for the functioning of modern technologies, economies, and national security, but are subject to high risks of supply chain disruption due to geological scarcity, geopolitical concentration, or lack of viable substitutes.

Why it matters

  • They are foundational inputs for the global energy transition, specifically for manufacturing electric vehicle batteries, solar panels, and wind turbines.
  • They are vital for high-technology sectors including aerospace, defense, telecommunications, and advanced electronics.
  • The concentration of mining and processing capacity in a limited number of jurisdictions creates strategic vulnerabilities for importing nations.
  • Securing domestic supply chains is increasingly viewed as a prerequisite for technological sovereignty and long-term industrial competitiveness.

How it is asked

Focus on the strategic importance of mineral security in the context of the green economy, India's policy initiatives to incentivize domestic exploration and processing, and the role of international mineral security partnerships in mitigating supply chain dependencies.