Official UPSC Format

Which of the following statements about Rare Earth Elements (REEs) and Critical Minerals is/are correct ?
1. Modern technological innovations including Artificial Intelligence, robotics and space exploration extensively utilise Rare Earth Elements (REEs).
2. China has the highest share in mining of REEs followed by India.
3. The Government of India launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) in 2025 to establish a robust framework for self-reliance in the critical mineral sector.
4. Rare Earth Elements are a set of 13 metallic elements.
Select the answer using the code given below :

1. Modern technological innovations including Artificial Intelligence, robotics and space exploration extensively utilise Rare Earth Elements (REEs).

2. China has the highest share in mining of REEs followed by India.

3. The Government of India launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) in 2025 to establish a robust framework for self-reliance in the critical mineral sector.

4. Rare Earth Elements are a set of 13 metallic elements.

⚡ Quick Recall Snippet

Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are a group of 17 critical metals indispensable for AI and green technologies. While China dominates global production, the US is the second-largest miner, not India. To secure its supply chain, India launched the National Critical Mineral Mission in 2025.

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Detailed Solution & Authority Citations

Correct Answer is Option A
Let's evaluate the scientific and geopolitical facts regarding critical minerals based on Ministry of Mines and USGS data:
  • Statement 1 is Correct: REEs possess unique magnetic and electrochemical properties. Elements like Neodymium are indispensable for the miniaturized, highly efficient permanent magnets required in robotics actuators, EV motors, and aerospace tech.

  • Statement 2 is Incorrect: While China holds a massive near-monopoly (roughly 70%) on global REE mining and processing, the second-largest miner is the United States, followed by nations like Australia and Myanmar. India's output is comparatively negligible.

  • Statement 3 is Correct: Recognizing this dangerous import dependency, the Government of India officially launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) in January 2025. It serves as a strategic blueprint to secure domestic supply chains for green tech and defense sectors.

  • Statement 4 is Incorrect: Chemically, Rare Earth Elements consist of 17 metallic elements, not 13. This group includes the 15 lanthanides on the periodic table, along with Scandium and Yttrium.
    • Conclusion: Statements 1 and 3 are factually accurate, making Option A correct.

    🚨 The Examiner's Trap

    The examiner uses patriotic optimism as a distractor in Statement 2, tempting candidates to incorrectly boost India's global mining rank. In Statement 4, the number 13 is likely meant to confuse candidates with the 15 lanthanides.

    Active Recall Flashcard

    Tap to Flip

    How many metallic elements comprise the group known as Rare Earth Elements (REEs) on the periodic table?

    17 elements (15 lanthanides plus scandium and yttrium).

    Concept Flow Mapping

    Rare Earth Elements
    Comprise
    17 Metallic Elements
    China
    Is Largest Producer Of
    Rare Earth Elements
    India
    Launched
    National Critical Mineral Mission (2025)

    Logic Quest

    "Why are REEs so crucial for AI and robotics?"

    Not analyzing core concepts like Geopolitics of Critical Technology Supply Chains through the lens of Previous Year Questions is a serious miss-out. This PYQ engine is specifically designed to help you decode the examiner's mindset and master highly probable World Geography questions for your upcoming Prelims.