Consider the following statements regarding the North-East region’s role in India’s critical mineral future: I. The North-East region holds reserves of lithium, cobalt, graphite, vanadium, nickel, and rare earth elements (REEs). II. China controls over 80% of the world’s rare earth permanent magnet demand. III. The Geological Survey of India’s (GSI) 2024–25 Critical Mineral Assessment Program (CMAP) identified Arunachal Pradesh as having over 17.8 million tonnes of graphite. IV. The North-East’s mineral reserves are only of economic significance, with no geopolitical relevance. V. Recent discoveries in the North-East have led to the auctioning of several mineral blocks in states like Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Nagaland. How many of the above statements are correct?

The correct answer is Option 3 In News The North-East is emerging as a critical mineral hub for India’s clean energy and strategic needs, amid China’s dominance in rare earth minerals. Key Points GSI surveys confirm reserves of lithium, cobalt, graphite, vanadium, nickel, and REEs in the North-East. Hence, Statement I is correct. China meets over 80% of global REE permanent magnet demand. Hence, Statement II is correct. Arunachal Pradesh has 17.8 million tonnes of graphite for lithium-ion batteries. Hence, Statement III is correct. The mineral reserves have both economic and strong geopolitical significance, given the region’s borders and role in supply chain security. Hence, Statement IV is incorrect. 38 exploration blocks in multiple NE states have been auctioned recently. Hence, Statement V is correct. Additional Information The North-East’s minerals are vital for EV batteries, solar panels, and defense technologies. Strategic positioning near China, Myanmar, and Bhutan enhances its geopolitical importance. Developing local communities and infrastructure is crucial to avoid a resource-extraction-only model.