7th June 2025 – Current Affairs

1. Global Energy Investment Report, 2025 – Economy

Why in News?

• According to the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) 10th edition of the Global Energy Investment Report (2025), China is projected to lead global energy investments, contributing over 25% of total spending.

Key Takeaways

1. China’s Role

• China will account for over 25% of global energy investments.
• Over $625 billion to be invested in clean energy by China.

2. Global Investment Trends

• Total clean energy investment is expected to reach $2.2 trillion.
• Investment in clean energy is surpassing fossil fuel investments for the first time.
• Despite this progress, investments are still falling short of COP28 climate targets.

3. Regional Dynamics

• Africa: Fossil fuel investments have significantly declined.
• India: Showing a rise in renewable energy investments.

Additional Details

International Energy Agency (IEA)

• Established: 1974
• Headquarters: Paris, France
• Members: 31 countries
• Background: Created in response to the 1973 oil crisis to promote energy security and cooperation.

India’s Engagement with IEA

• India became an Association Country in 2017.
• Benefits include data sharing, policy support, and technical cooperation with the IEA.

Global Energy Investment Report

• Annual flagship publication by IEA since 2016.
• Purpose: To assess investment flows across the global energy system and their alignment with climate goals and energy access.

Strategic Value

• The report evaluates whether current energy investments:
  • Align with climate goals (e.g., net-zero targets).
  • Promote energy access for all (especially in developing regions).

Key Challenges & Barriers

• Financing Barriers in India:
  • Capital costs in India are 80% higher than in advanced economies.
  • This significantly hinders clean energy growth in the country.
• Global Mismatch in Investment:
  • Around $1 trillion is spent annually on power generation.
  • Only $400 billion is allocated to grid infrastructure.
  • This leads to distribution capacity issues and bottlenecks in energy delivery.

Summary

The 2025 Global Energy Investment Report by the IEA highlights major trends and challenges in global energy investments. China emerges as the leader, contributing over 25% of total global energy investments, with a significant focus on clean energy. Global clean energy investments are rising but still insufficient to meet COP28 targets. Africa is seeing a decline in fossil fuel investments, while India is expanding its renewable energy sector but faces barriers such as high capital costs. The report also warns of an imbalance between investment in power generation and the underfunding of grid infrastructure, which could affect long-term energy distribution and reliability.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following countries is projected to contribute the largest share of global energy investments according to the Global Energy Investment Report 2025?
   A. USA
   B. India
   C. China
   D. Germany
   Answer: C. China
   
   
2. The International Energy Agency (IEA) was established in response to which of the following events?
   A. COP28 Summit
   B. 1973 Oil Crisis
   C. Paris Climate Agreement
   D. Kyoto Protocol
   Answer: B. 1973 Oil Crisis
   
   
3. India became an Association Country of the IEA in which year?
   A. 2005
   B. 2017
   C. 2020
   D. 2023
   Answer: B. 2017

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of China’s growing share in global clean energy investments. What are the potential global and regional implications of this trend? (10 marks)
   
   
2. India faces high capital costs in clean energy investments. Analyze the barriers to financing clean energy in India and suggest policy measures to overcome them. (15 marks)
   
   
3. Despite rising global clean energy investments, the targets of COP28 remain unmet. Examine the reasons behind this investment gap and suggest global strategies to bridge it. (15 marks)
   

2. Status of Tiger’s Prey in India – Environment

Why in News?

• For the first time, India has conducted a comprehensive national assessment of ungulate species, which serve as crucial prey for tigers and are significant for maintaining healthy forest ecosystems.

Key Takeaways

Report Details

• Title: “Status of Ungulates in Tiger Habitats of India”.
• Released by:
  • Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
  • National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
• Significance:
  • First national-level assessment of ungulates.
  • Focuses on key species that are essential for tiger survival and ecosystem health.

Key Ungulate Species Covered

• Chital (Spotted Deer)
• Sambar (Large Forest Deer)
• Gaur (Indian Bison)
• Wild Pig
• Nilgai (Blue Bull)
• Hog Deer and Barasingha (Swamp Deer)

Ecological Importance

• Ungulates play a vital role by:
  • Serving as the primary prey base for tigers.
  • Maintaining biodiversity and supporting forest regeneration.

Additional Details

Prey Density & Tiger Survival

• Ideal prey density:
  • 30 ungulates per sq km are needed to support 4 tigers per 100 sq km.
  • Maintaining this balance is critical for sustainable tiger populations.

Challenges to Ungulate Populations

• Territoriality (competition for space).
• Interspecies competition (between prey species).
• Habitat fragmentation (due to infrastructure, deforestation).

Geographical Variations

Declining Regions (East-Central India)

• Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh show significant reductions.
• Causes:
  • Habitat loss due to deforestation, urbanization, mining.
  • Civil unrest impacting conservation efforts.

Thriving Regions

• Shivalik-Gangetic Plains.
• Madhya Pradesh.
• Maharashtra.
• Western Ghats.
• Northeast India. → These regions support healthier prey populations due to better habitat management and protected area networks.

Species-Specific Trends

• Chital:
  • Most widespread and highly adaptable species.
• Sambar:
  • Population stable in central and southern forests.
• Hog Deer and Barasingha:
  • Experiencing sharp decline due to:
    • Wetland degradation.
    • Habitat isolation.

Human-Wildlife Conflict

• In areas with low prey density (e.g., Tadoba, Ratapani):
  • Tigers increasingly prey on livestock.
  • This leads to heightened human-wildlife conflict and retaliatory killings.

Conservation Measures

• On-site prey breeding programs.
• Creation of predator-proof enclosures to protect both livestock and prey.
• Forest restoration initiatives.
• Efforts to reduce habitat fragmentation caused by expanding infrastructure (roads, railways, etc.).

Summary

The Status of Ungulates in Tiger Habitats of India marks a significant step in India’s tiger conservation strategy. It highlights the critical role of ungulate prey species like chital, sambar, gaur, and others in supporting healthy tiger populations and maintaining overall ecosystem balance. The study identifies both thriving and declining regions and points out key challenges such as habitat loss and fragmentation. Conservation efforts are increasingly focusing on prey population recovery, habitat management, and conflict mitigation to ensure that tiger landscapes remain viable and sustainable.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following species is NOT considered a key prey species for tigers in India?
   A. Chital
   B. Sambar
   C. Gaur
   D. Sloth Bear
   Answer: D. Sloth Bear
   
   
2. What is the ideal density of ungulates required to support 4 tigers per 100 sq km according to the latest assessment?
   A. 10 per sq km
   B. 20 per sq km
   C. 30 per sq km
   D. 50 per sq km
   Answer: C. 30 per sq km
   
   
3. The report “Status of Ungulates in Tiger Habitats of India” was released by which two organizations?
   A. WII and MoEFCC
   B. NTCA and IUCN
   C. WII and NTCA
   D.IUCN and WWF-India
   Answer: C. WII and NTCA
   

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of ungulate prey populations in tiger conservation efforts in India. How does prey density impact tiger survival and ecosystem health? (10 marks)
   
   
2. Analyze the key challenges affecting the population of ungulates in Indian forests. Suggest measures to improve the prey base for sustaining viable tiger populations. (15 marks)
   
   
3. Human-wildlife conflict is increasing in areas with low prey density. Examine the causes and consequences of such conflicts and suggest appropriate mitigation strategies. (15 marks)
   

3. Assessing the Effectiveness of India’s Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) – Economy

Why in News?

• Recent data from the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) shows that creditors have recovered Rs. 3.89 lakh crore under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), underlining the Code’s significant impact on corporate insolvency resolution in India.

Key Takeaways

IBC Overview

• Enacted in 2016 to reform the handling of distressed assets and streamline corporate insolvency resolution.
• Aims to tackle the issue of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs).

Progress & Impact (as of March 2025)

• Total of 1,194 companies resolved through the IBC process.
• Recovery rate: 32.8% against admitted claims.
• Total recovered: Rs. 3.89 lakh crore.

Cultural Shift in Borrower Behavior

• Over 30,000 cases (worth Rs. 13.78 lakh crore) settled before admission into IBC proceedings.
• Demonstrates a deterrent effect—borrowers are now more proactive in settling debts.

Judicial Delays

• 78% of ongoing cases exceed the stipulated 270-day limit.
• Despite a formal time limit of 330 days, processing times at the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) remain a major bottleneck.

Legal Uncertainty

• Recent Supreme Court judgments (e.g., Bhushan Power and Steel case) have raised concerns about the stability of resolution outcomes.
• Legal ambiguities could deter investors and delay resolutions.

Additional Details

Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC): Key Features

• Provides a consolidated framework for resolving corporate insolvency and bankruptcy.
• Centralizes the resolution process through the NCLT.
• Imposes strict time limits (initially 180 days, extendable to 330 days) to ensure swift resolution.
• Designed to balance the interests of creditors and debtors, and to promote credit discipline in the financial system.

Key Challenges

• Judicial Delays:
  • Overburdened NCLTs slow down the process.
  • Recovery rates and investor confidence are adversely impacted.
• Legal Uncertainty:
  • Varying judicial interpretations on issues like priority of claims, treatment of operational creditors, and distribution of proceeds.
  • Cases like Bhushan Power and Steel create unpredictability, affecting potential bidders’ and investors’ willingness to participate.
• Framework Limitations:
  • IBC must evolve to address the needs of modern businesses, including startups, MSMEs, and new asset classes.

Summary

India’s Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), enacted in 2016, has emerged as a powerful tool for addressing corporate insolvencies and improving recovery rates from distressed assets. With nearly Rs. 3.89 lakh crore recovered and a significant number of cases resolved or settled outside the tribunal, the Code has reshaped borrower behavior and instilled greater discipline in the corporate ecosystem.

However, the effectiveness of IBC is hampered by judicial delays, with 78% of cases exceeding the stipulated time frame. Additionally, legal uncertainties arising from recent court rulings threaten to undermine investor confidence. Going forward, reforms aimed at strengthening NCLT capacity, providing legal clarity, and updating the Code for modern business needs will be crucial in enabling the IBC to contribute effectively to India’s goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) was enacted in which year?
   A. 2015
   B. 2016
   C. 2017
   D. 2018
   Answer: B. 2016
   
   
2. Which institution handles corporate insolvency resolution under the IBC framework?
   A. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
   B. National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT)
   C. Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
   D. Supreme Court of India
   Answer: B. National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT)
   
   
3. What is the currently stipulated time limit for resolving cases under the IBC?
   A. 180 days
   B. 270 days
   C. 330 days
   D. 365 days
   Answer: C. 330 days
   

Mains

1. Critically assess the effectiveness of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) in resolving corporate insolvencies in India. What are the key achievements and persisting challenges? (15 marks)
   
   
2. Discuss the impact of judicial delays and legal uncertainties on the performance of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). Suggest measures to improve the efficiency of the system. (15 marks)
   
   
3. How has the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code influenced borrower behavior in India? Analyze its broader implications for credit discipline and financial stability. (10 marks)
   

4. NAMASTE Scheme – Governance

Why in News?

• The Ministry of Social Justice has introduced the Waste Picker Enumeration App as part of the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) Scheme to support and formalize India’s large informal sanitation workforce.

Key Takeaways

Scheme Overview

• Launched: 2022
• Type: Central Sector Scheme
• Jointly implemented by:
  • Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)
  • Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE)
• Executing Agency: National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC)

Evolution of the Scheme

• Initially focused on Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs).
• In June 2024, scope expanded to include Waste Pickers.

Core Objectives

• Enhance safety, dignity, skill development, and social inclusion for sanitation workers.
• Promote mechanized and safe sanitation practices.
• Facilitate integration of informal workers into formal systems.

Additional Details

Key Components

1. Identification & Integration

• Enumerate Sewer and Septic Tank Workers and Waste Pickers.
• Issue ID cards to bring them under formal government support frameworks.

2. Skill Development & Training

• Provide occupational training to ensure safe and professional sanitation work.
• Promote mechanization to reduce manual handling of waste.

3. Health & Safety Support

• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) kits distributed to frontline workers.
• Health coverage extended under Ayushman Bharat – PM-JAY to workers and their families.
• Sanitation Response Units (SRUs) equipped with modern safety tools.

4. Livelihood & Financial Support

• Encourage mechanized sanitation work.
• Offer capital and interest subsidies to support equipment purchase.
• Promote formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and sanitation enterprises.

5. Awareness & Community Engagement

• Conduct awareness campaigns via Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and NSKFDC.
• Promote the idea of dignified and safe sanitation work.

Key Achievements (as of May 29, 2025)

Summary

The NAMASTE Scheme is a transformative initiative aimed at improving the working conditions, safety, and livelihoods of sanitation workers in India. By expanding its scope to cover waste pickers, the scheme acknowledges the vast informal workforce engaged in sanitation and waste management. The scheme ensures that sanitation workers receive health benefits, protective equipment, occupational training, and financial support, promoting their social dignity and helping to formalize their roles within India’s urban ecosystem. This aligns with broader goals of social justice and inclusive governance.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The NAMASTE Scheme is implemented jointly by which of the following ministries?
   A. Ministry of Rural Development and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
   B. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
   C. Ministry of Skill Development and Ministry of Labour
   D. Ministry of Health and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
   Answer: B. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
   
   
2. Which of the following groups was added to the scope of the NAMASTE Scheme in June 2024?
   A. Municipal Engineers
   B. Domestic Workers
   C. Street Vendors
   D. Waste Pickers
   Answer: D. Waste Pickers
   
   
3. What is the name of the executing body for the NAMASTE Scheme?
   A. NITI Aayog
   B. NSDC
   C. NSKFDC
   D.MoRD
   Answer: C. NSKFDC (National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation)
   

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of the NAMASTE Scheme in improving the working conditions of India’s sanitation workers. How does the scheme address the challenges faced by this vulnerable section of society? (10 marks)
   
   
2. Waste pickers form an integral but often neglected part of urban waste management systems. Analyze how the recent expansion of the NAMASTE Scheme can contribute to their social and economic upliftment. (15 marks)
   
   
3. Critically examine the role of mechanization in ensuring the safety and dignity of sanitation workers in India. What are the potential barriers to its widespread adoption? (15 marks)
   

5. Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi – Environment

Why in News?

• The Tamil Nadu government has officially notified the establishment of a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary in Dhanushkodi, Ramanathapuram district.
• The move aims to protect the flamingo species and conserve their habitat within the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.

Key Takeaways

Legal Framework

• Established under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• The Act:
  • Provides the legal basis for setting up bird sanctuaries.
  • Prohibits hunting of protected bird species.
  • Enforces penalties for violations.

Area Covered

• 524.7 hectares within the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.

Additional Details

What is a Bird Sanctuary?

• A designated area for the protection and conservation of bird species and their habitats.
• Managed under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Activities like hunting, poaching, and habitat destruction are strictly prohibited.

About the Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)

Global Distribution

• Found in:
  • Africa.
  • Southern Europe.
  • South and Southeast Asia, including India.

Presence in India

• India is home to both Greater Flamingos and Lesser Flamingos.
• Greater Flamingo is the state bird of Gujarat.

Behaviour and Diet

• Monogamous pairs during breeding.
• Distinctive pink coloration is derived from a diet rich in brine shrimp and algae.
• Omnivorous: feeds on:
  • Invertebrates.
  • Small fish.
  • Decaying plant matter.

Migration Pattern

• Around 150,000 flamingos migrate annually from Gujarat to Mumbai, arriving in November at the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary.
• Migration is triggered by:
  • Food availability.
  • Water levels.
  • Colony crowding.

Conservation Status

Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi

Ecosystems Included

• Mangroves.
• Marshes.
• Sand dunes.
• Supports:
  • Migratory birds.
  • Marine life.

Flyway Significance

• Located along the Central Asian Flyway—a critical migratory route for birds between their breeding grounds and wintering areas.

Bird Census 2023-24

• Recorded 10,700+ birds.
• Species include:
  • Herons.
  • Egrets.
  • Sandpipers.
  • Both Greater and Lesser Flamingos.

Ecological Importance

• Dominated by mangrove species like:
  • Avicennia.
  • Rhizophora.
• Provides:
  • Breeding grounds for birds.
  • Coastal protection against erosion and extreme weather.

Summary

The Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi marks an important milestone in India’s efforts to conserve coastal and wetland ecosystems. It protects not just the iconic Greater Flamingo but also supports migratory birds, marine life, and coastal biodiversity. Its strategic location along the Central Asian Flyway enhances India’s role in global migratory bird conservation. Additionally, the sanctuary plays a vital role in ecological balance, climate resilience, and local livelihoods.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. The recently notified Greater Flamingo Sanctuary is located in which Indian state?
   A. Gujarat
   B. Rajasthan
   C. Tamil Nadu
   D. Maharashtra
   Answer: C. Tamil Nadu
   
   
2. Which of the following acts provides the legal basis for the establishment of bird sanctuaries in India?
   A. Biological Diversity Act, 2002
   B. Forest Rights Act, 2006
   C. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
   D. Environment Protection Act, 1986
   Answer: C. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
   
   
3. The Central Asian Flyway is associated with which of the following?
   A. Marine Turtles
   B. Migratory Birds
   C. Tigers
   D. Snow Leopards
   Answer: B. Migratory Birds
   

Mains

1. Discuss the ecological importance of bird sanctuaries in coastal ecosystems, with special reference to the newly notified Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi. (10 marks)
   
   
2. India lies at the heart of several migratory bird flyways. Analyze the significance of flyway-based conservation in protecting migratory species like the Greater Flamingo. (15 marks)
   
   
3. How can the conservation of wetlands and bird sanctuaries contribute to climate resilience and biodiversity in India’s coastal regions? Illustrate with examples. (15 marks)
   

6. Reimagining the Classroom – Implementing Mother Tongue Policy through Dialogue – Governance

Why in News?

• The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated the introduction of mother tongue-based instruction at the foundational and preparatory stages of schooling.
• The initiative aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), which emphasize multilingualism and the use of home language in early education.
• The article stresses that the policy should be implemented through dialogue and consensus, not strict top-down directives.

Key Takeaways

Policy Goals

• Enhance foundational education through mother tongue-based instruction.
• Promote multilingualism as envisioned in NEP 2020.
• Emphasize the importance of a dialogue-based, participatory implementation approach.

Additional Details

Evolution of Language Policy in India

• Kothari Commission (1964–66): Advocated the three-language formula and stressed the importance of the mother tongue in education.
• National Policy on Education (1968): Reiterated that early education should be in the mother tongue to facilitate better learning.
• National Curriculum Framework (2023): Further strengthened the call for multilingual education, particularly at the foundational stage.

Rationale for Mother Tongue-Based Education

• Cognitive Benefits:
  • Enhances comprehension, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
• Emotional Benefits:
  • Provides emotional security and fosters a strong cultural identity.
• Pedagogical Research:
  • Global and Indian studies show that early education in the mother tongue leads to better academic outcomes and smoother acquisition of additional languages.

Challenges in Implementation

1. Teacher Preparedness:
   • Many teachers lack training to teach in multiple regional languages.
   • Shortage of qualified multilingual educators.
2. Resource Constraints:
   • Insufficient teaching-learning materials in many regional languages.
   • Lack of digital content and textbooks in local languages.
3. Societal Perceptions:
   • English is often seen as a medium of social and economic mobility.
   • Parents and communities may resist mother tongue instruction due to fear of limiting future opportunities.

Recommendations for Effective Implementation

• Dialogue-Based Approach:
  • Build trust with teachers, parents, and communities.
  • Conduct consultations and awareness campaigns to highlight the benefits of mother tongue education.
• Gradual Integration:
  • Implement the policy in phases with adequate transition time.
• Teacher Training:
  • Provide 2–3 years of dedicated training and support.
  • Develop multilingual pedagogical tools and resources.
• Resource Development:
  • Invest in high-quality materials in regional languages.
  • Encourage the creation of local language digital content.

Summary

The move to implement mother tongue-based instruction in CBSE schools represents an important step toward realizing the vision of NEP 2020 and NCF 2023, which advocate for multilingualism and child-centered learning. Research supports the pedagogical and emotional benefits of this approach. However, successful implementation demands a dialogue-driven, inclusive process rather than a top-down mandate. Addressing challenges such as teacher readiness, resource gaps, and societal perceptions is key to making this policy effective and sustainable.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following key education policies first recommended using the mother tongue for early education in India?
   A. National Education Policy, 1986
   B. National Policy on Education, 1968
   C. Kothari Commission Report (1964–66)
   D. National Curriculum Framework, 2005
   Answer: C. Kothari Commission Report (1964–66)
   
   
2. The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023 is aligned with which of the following policies?
   A. National Policy on Skill Development
   B. National Education Policy, 2020
   C. National Innovation Policy
   D. National Science and Technology Policy
   Answer: B. National Education Policy, 2020
   
   
3. Which of the following is NOT cited as a benefit of mother tongue-based education?
   A. Better comprehension
   B. Critical thinking
   C. Emotional security
   D. Increased global mobility at an early stage
   Answer: D.Increased global mobility at an early stage
   

Mains

1. “Education in the mother tongue is not just a pedagogical choice, but a step towards inclusive governance.” Discuss the significance and challenges of implementing mother tongue-based instruction in Indian schools. (15 marks)
   
   
2. Analyze the role of dialogue-based policy implementation in promoting the objectives of NEP 2020, with special reference to language policy in education. (10 marks)
   
   
3. Discuss how societal perceptions around English as a medium of instruction affect the adoption of mother tongue-based education in India. What steps can be taken to address these concerns? (15 marks)
   

7. Rare Earth Magnets – Science and Technology

Why in News?

• India is negotiating with global companies to develop long-term stockpiles of rare earth magnets.
• The initiative aims to boost domestic production through fiscal incentives, to reduce dependency on China, which controls around 90% of the global rare earth magnet processing market and has recently imposed export restrictions.

Key Takeaways

What Are Rare Earth Magnets?

• Permanent magnets made from rare earth element alloys.
• Exhibit:
  • Exceptional magnetic strength.
  • High energy density.
• Crucial for high-performance applications in modern technology.

Global Context

• China dominates the global supply chain, controlling about 90% of processing capacity for rare earth magnets.
• India is seeking to build domestic capabilities and diversify its supply sources.

Additional Details

Composition

• Neodymium magnets:
  • Most commonly used.
  • Stronger magnetic force but more susceptible to corrosion.
• Samarium Cobalt magnets:
  • Slightly less powerful but more corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant.

Properties

• Very high magnetic strength.
• Brittle in nature—prone to breaking or cracking.
• Susceptible to oxidation—commonly protected by nickel plating or other coatings.

Applications

Strategic Significance

• Integral to emerging and critical technologies.
• Essential for energy transition technologies such as wind turbines and EV motors.
• Supply chain has become a geopolitical issue, especially with China’s export restrictions.

Summary

Rare earth magnets are vital components of modern high-tech applications owing to their exceptional magnetic strength and versatility. They are made primarily from rare earth elements such as neodymium and samarium.
Currently, China dominates the global rare earth magnet market, controlling nearly 90% of processing capacity. In light of this, India is pursuing domestic production and stockpiling initiatives to reduce dependency, supported by fiscal incentives. The strategic importance of these magnets in sectors ranging from defense to clean energy makes their supply a key focus of international trade and technology policy.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims

1. Which of the following rare earth elements is commonly used in the manufacture of rare earth magnets?
   A. Lithium
   B. Neodymium
   C. Zinc
   D. Beryllium
   Answer: B. Neodymium
   
   
2. Samarium Cobalt magnets are typically known for which of the following properties?
   A. Low magnetic strength
   B. High corrosion resistance
   C. Incompatibility with high temperatures
   D. Flexibility
   Answer: B. High corrosion resistance
   
   
3. Which country currently dominates the global processing capacity of rare earth magnets?
   A. Japan
   B. South Korea
   C. India
   D. China
   Answer: D. China
   

Mains

1. Discuss the significance of rare earth magnets in modern technology. How can India reduce its dependency on external sources for these critical materials? (15 marks)
   
   
2. Explain the role of rare earth magnets in clean energy technologies and their relevance for India’s transition to a green economy. (10 marks)
   
   
3. China’s dominance in the rare earth magnet supply chain poses a strategic challenge to other nations. What steps can India take to strengthen its rare earth value chain? (15 marks)