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- India was ranked 3rd worldwide with 6.9 million tonnes of Rare Earth Oxides (REO).
- China topped the list with 44 million tonnes, followed by Brazil in 2nd place.
- Rare earths are vital for electronics, EV batteries, renewable energy, defence systems, and semiconductors.
- Despite large reserves, India’s production remains below 1% of global output due to regulatory and refining challenges.
- Most reserves in India are found in monazite‑rich coastal sands of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.
- Significance: Strengthens India’s role in the global supply chain, supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat and strategic mineral security.
Question:
Q.1 As per the 2025 United States Geological Survey (USGS) Global Rare Earth Reserves ranking, India's rare earth reserves are estimated at 6.9 million tonnes of REO. What is its global rank?a) 1st
b) 2nd
c) 3rd
d) 4th
Answer: c) This is a direct fact from the passage. India was ranked 3rd worldwide, behind China (1st) and Brazil (2nd).