AR

Ankit RauchanAIR 255· 2024

Question 15Bring 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.

Open scan (p.33)

Introduction

Rare Earth Elements refer to Lanthanoids found in periodic table.

10 words

Main Body

Vitamins of Modern Industry:

Critical mineral - Use for semiconductors— Mobile, laptop etc. which is essential for Industrial Revolution 4.0.
Use in electrical vehicle Indispensable in achieving sustainable transportation.
Use in critical technology like nuclear.

REE are highly unevenly distributed in the world in form of certain clusters—

1Lithium Argentina, chile
2China
3Central African region

In India, it is found in small amount in Laddeh.

Impact on sovereignty:

Due to dependence for critical minerals on other nation

Price fluctuation is causing inflation (Cost push)

China controlling the supply chains of these REE

Some of REE clusters don't have good water resource hence increasing it extraction price along with unsustainability.

Potential use of it as tool of blockade in geopolitics.

China & I sup global supply chain for semiconductors vulnerabilities

Need Research/mining of potential REE region in India.

Distributing its global basket of REE to different clusters.

152 words1 paragraphs

Conclusion

REE is indispensable to future technology and nation should reach at an amicable solution for its unhindered accessibility

18 words

  • Clear definition of REE
  • Links to modern industrial applications
  • Mentions sustainable technology angle
  • Connects to Industry 4.0

Topper

Ankit Rauchan

AIR 2552024

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Distribution of Key Natural Resources across the world

Rare Earth Elements distribution and implications

REE importance in modern technology and industry

Writing Stats

180

Total words

1

Paragraphs

Technical and informative

Tone