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 :

QUESTION

Medium

World Geography

Prelims 2026

Which of the following statements about Rare Earth Elements (REEs) and Critical Minerals is/are correct ?

Modern technological innovations including Artificial Intelligence, robotics and space exploration extensively utilise Rare Earth Elements (REEs).
China has the highest share in mining of REEs followed by India.
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.
Rare Earth Elements are a set of 13 metallic elements.

Select the answer using the code given below :

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Statement 1 is Correct: Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are indispensable for modern technological innovations. Their unique magnetic, luminescent, and electrochemical properties make them critical for artificial intelligence hardware, robotics, space exploration, electric vehicles, and advanced defense systems.

Statement 2 is Incorrect: While China dominates global REE mining, accounting for roughly 69% of global production, the second-largest producer is the United States, followed by Myanmar and Australia. India ranks much lower globally and is not the second-largest producer.

Statement 3 is Correct: The Government of India officially launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) in January 2025. The mission is a strategic blueprint designed to secure domestic and global supply chains, reduce import dependence, and establish a robust framework for self-reliance in critical minerals essential for clean energy and technology.

Statement 4 is Incorrect: Rare Earth Elements are a set of 17 metallic elements, not 13. This group comprises the 15 lanthanides on the periodic table, along with scandium and yttrium, which share similar chemical properties and are typically found in the same ore deposits.

Therefore, the correct option is A.

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