Question Q.19Bring out the multi-dimensional implicationsGS1GS1
Rare Earths Elements (REE) are considered as 'Vitamins of Modern Industry'. In this context, bring out the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of REE in the world.
Introduction
REE are a group of 17 elements that are found in low concentrations, thus making their extraction difficult. eg Lanthanides, Yttrium, Scandium
22 words
Main Body
Vitamins of modern Industry
1Renewable energy - biofuels, solar panels
2Electronics - display, battery
3Defence - modern weapons
4AI revolution - GPUs, processors, etc.
Uneven distribution of REE in world
[Diagram: World map showing REE distribution - USA, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kerala, Australia]
China has 70% production of REE
Triangle of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile is also key reserve holder
USA - Texas & Alaska, all bearing
India - monazite sands of Kerala - have illuminite
Multi-dimensional impact of the uneven distribution of REE in world
1Geopolitical impact:
Weaponisation of REE trade possible eg China's metal diplomacy
US-China rivalry deepened
Monopolisation of defence REE usage
2Economic impact
Current account deficit in Rupee's
BoP account possible
Supply-chain disruptions
Skewed industrialisation
3Social impacts
Environmental degradation of REE source regions due to mining
Displacement of locals eg tribals
Inequality in world will rise
Steps taken:
Metal extraction deal with Argentina
ONGC videsh ventureship into REE abroad
Mineral Security Partnership (MSP) with USA
Kabil Consortium
— Poorva Agrawal · AIR 65
190 words7 paragraphs18 bullet points
Conclusion
These steps can enable India to maintain its national interests with REE supply security.
14 words
Diagram
World map showing distribution of Rare Earth Elements across countries - USA, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kerala (India), Australia
- Good categorization of REE uses
- Diagram of global distribution
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Topper
Poorva Agrawal
AIR 652024
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
Distribution of Key Natural Resources
Rare Earth Elements
Uneven distribution of REE
Writing Stats
226
Total words
7
Paragraphs
18
Bullets