Prelims 2026 · Science and Technology · Question 95
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 :
Answer
1 and 3 only
1 is correct: REEs are heavily used in advanced technologies, and current official/expert material links them to AI, robotics, defence, aerospace and space applications. 2 is incorrect: China leads global REE mining, but India is not second. 3 is correct: the Union Cabinet approved the National Critical Mineral Mission on 29 January 2025. 4 is incorrect: REEs are 17 elements, not 13. Hence, only 1 and 3 are correct.