Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
5. Securing access to key minerals and rare earth metals is critical for building resilient and indigenous supply chains for strategic purposes and clean energy technologies. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
In his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi exhorted the country to pursue aatmanirbharta in energy by focusing on clean energy technologies. Concerns over the pricing and availability of oil and gas in the wake of the Ukraine crisis continue to fuel global policy debates on energy security. However, the fragility of clean energy supply chains obscures pathways for countries to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the ways to ensure resilient supply chains of key minerals.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by giving context of key minerals and rare earths.
Body:
Firstly, in detail, mention the various threats and impediments to supply of key minerals and rare earths and how any disruption in their supply will affect India.
Next, write about the measures that are needed to ensure their seamless supply and for India to get self-reliant in supply chain.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
