UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2026

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. 1 and 3 only
  2. 3 only
  3. 1, 3 and 4
  4. 1, 2 and 4

Answer

Correct Answer

1 and 3 only

Explanation

Rare Earth Elements are important inputs for several modern technologies, including advanced electronics, robotics, renewable-energy technologies and aerospace applications, making statement 1 correct. Statement 2 is incorrect because India's share of global REE mining is not second to China. Statement 3 is correct: India launched the National Critical Mineral Mission in 2025 to strengthen exploration, processing, recycling and supply-chain security for critical minerals. Statement 4 is incorrect because the rare-earth group consists of 17 elements, not 13.

Topics: critical minerals, economy, rare earth elements, strategic resources