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 utilize 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:

Option (A) — Only statements 1 and 3 are correct

• Rare Earth Elements and critical minerals are essential for advanced technologies, defense systems, and the transition to renewable energy.
• Global supply chains for these minerals are highly concentrated, prompting nations to secure their own supplies to prevent economic and security vulnerabilities.
• India has classified several minerals as critical and strategic, initiating specific missions and policies to boost domestic exploration and global acquisition.

• Statement 1. Modern technological innovations including Artificial Intelligence, robotics and space exploration extensively utilize Rare Earth Elements (REEs): Correct. These elements are indispensable for manufacturing the specialized microchips, sensors, and high performance magnets required in advanced technologies.
• Statement 2. China has the highest share in mining of REEs followed by India: Incorrect. China has the highest global share in REE mining, but the second largest producer is typically the United States or Myanmar, not India.
• Statement 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: Correct. This mission was formulated to boost domestic exploration, secure global acquisitions, and reduce import dependency for strategic minerals.
• Statement 4. Rare Earth Elements are a set of 13 metallic elements: Incorrect. Rare Earth Elements are actually a set of 17 metallic elements, consisting of the 15 lanthanides on the periodic table along with scandium and yttrium.