“Access to strategic minerals is becoming a key determinant of geopolitical power”. Evaluate this statement with reference to the Indian subcontinent.

Topic: Geography

Q1. “Access to strategic minerals is becoming a key determinant of geopolitical power”. Evaluate this statement with reference to the Indian subcontinent. (10 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: InsightsIAS

Why the question:
The increasing strategic value of minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earths in shaping industrial competitiveness, technological sovereignty, and geopolitical influence — particularly in South Asia

Key Demand of the question:
You need to evaluate how access to strategic minerals is redefining power relations globally and regionally, and then specifically examine its geopolitical, economic, and strategic implications for India and the Indian subcontinent.

Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:

Define strategic minerals and highlight their emerging role in the 21st-century geopolitical order, linking it briefly to India’s regional context.

Body:

• Importance of strategic minerals globally: Explain how they influence technology, energy transition, and defence capabilities.
• Indian subcontinent context: Examine India’s mineral dependency, regional resources (Afghanistan, Pakistan), and China’s dominance through initiatives like CPEC.
• Implications for India: Analyse how India’s foreign policy, economic strategy, and regional partnerships are shaped by efforts to secure these minerals.

Conclusion:
Summarise by linking mineral access to strategic autonomy and future geopolitical leverage, noting India’s efforts to build resilient supply chains and regional cooperation.