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 :

The correct answer is Option A (1 and 3 only).

Statement 1 is correct: Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are indispensable for modern technological advancements. Their unique magnetic, luminescent, and catalytic properties make them critical components in manufacturing high-tech hardware, including applications in Artificial Intelligence, robotics, electric vehicles, and space exploration.

Statement 2 is incorrect: While China holds the dominant global share in both the reserves and the mining of REEs (accounting for roughly 69% of global mined production), India is not the second-largest producer. The United States ranks second in REE mining, followed by Myanmar and Australia. Although India possesses significant REE reserves, its current extraction and processing output remains comparatively low.

Statement 3 is correct: The Government of India launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) in January 2025. With a multi-year strategic framework spanning from 2024-25 to 2030-31, the mission seeks to ensure self-reliance and secure the supply chains for essential critical minerals through enhanced domestic exploration, processing, recycling, and overseas asset acquisition.

Statement 4 is incorrect: Rare Earth Elements comprise a group of 17 chemically similar metallic elements, not 13. The group consists of the 15 lanthanides (ranging from lanthanum to lutetium on the periodic table) along with scandium and yttrium, which tend to occur in the same ore deposits and exhibit similar chemical properties.

Concluding Takeaway: Remember the 17 REEs (15 Lanthanides + Scandium + Yttrium). For global REE mining dominance, recall the top producers: China, the US, Myanmar, and Australia. India aims to boost its strategic mineral autonomy through the newly launched 2025 NCMM.