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- Critical minerals are those vital for economic growth and national security. A shortage or uneven distribution of these minerals can create significant vulnerabilities in global supply chains, potentially leading to disruptions in their availability. As the world economy advances, it will increasingly rely on minerals like lithium, cobalt, graphite, titanium, and rare earth elements. These minerals are crucial for the development of industries such as high-tech electronics, telecommunications, transportation, and defense. They also play a key role in the global shift towards a low-carbon economy, powering renewable energy technologies necessary for nations striving to meet 'Net Zero' targets.
- About the Critical Minerals Summit:
- Organized by: Ministry of Mines, Government of India, in collaboration with Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation, CEEW, and IISD.
- Purpose: To promote collaboration, innovation, and policy discussions around the beneficiation and processing of critical minerals.
- Key Highlights:
- Focus on eight essential minerals, including lithium, rare earth elements, graphite, vanadium, and platinum group minerals.
- Interactive workshops covering mineral auctions, policy incentives, and sustainable practices.
- India’s Current Scenario:
- The Ministry of Mines has identified 30 critical minerals crucial for economic and strategic security.
- India is fully dependent on imports for 10 of these critical minerals.
- Dependence on China: India’s reliance on China for six critical minerals exceeds 40%, including:
- Bismuth (85.6%)
- Lithium (82%)
- Silicon (76%)
- Titanium (50.6%)
- Tellurium (48.8%)
- Graphite (42.4%)
- Reason for Reliance: China’s dominance in mineral processing, controlling 87% of rare earth processing, 58% of lithium refining, and 68% of silicon processing.
- About Farmers Producer Organisation (FPO):
- A Farmers Producer Organisation (FPO) is a collective formed by farmers to operate as an entity owned, managed, and benefitting its members. FPOs are established to empower farmers by enhancing their collective bargaining power and promoting their interests in the agricultural value chain. The Small Farmers’ Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC) plays a crucial role in fostering the development and growth of FPOs across India.
- Purpose of POs:
- A Producer Organisation (PO) serves as a collective body representing producers of various goods, such as agricultural products, non-farm commodities, and artisan goods. It can adopt legal forms such as producer companies, cooperatives, or other entities that enable profit-sharing and mutual benefits among members.
- Ownership of FPOs:
- FPOs are entirely owned by their member farmers. They operate on the principles of democratic decision-making and equitable benefit-sharing among all members.
- Legal Framework for FPOs:
- FPOs can be registered under the following legal frameworks:
- Companies Act, 1956 or Companies Act, 2013
- Societies Registration Act, 1860
- Public Trusts Act, 1882
- These frameworks ensure transparency, accountability, and efficient management within the organisation.
- About Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER):
- Established in 1981, ICRIER is a prominent Indian policy research think tank that focuses on key sectors such as agriculture, climate change, digital economy, and economic growth. ICRIER conducts in-depth research to influence policy formulation and contribute to India's development.
- Thrissur Pooram is a spectacular celebration that embodies the cultural and spiritual richness of Kerala. Held annually in the Malayalam month of Medam (April-May), it takes place at the Thekkinkadu Maidanam in Thrissur. Known as the “mother of all Poorams,” it is one of the grandest temple festivals in the state. The festival was first initiated by Raja Rama Varma, also known as Sakthan Thampuran, the Maharaja of Cochin (1790–1805).
- Key Highlights:
- Majestic elephants, dressed in elaborate traditional attire, are the focal point of the event.
- Traditional music, including the energetic Panchavadyam orchestra, enhances the vibrancy and excitement of the festival.
- Kerala High Court Directives:
- The Kerala High Court has issued specific guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of elephants, participants, and the public during the festival. Key directives include:
- Maintaining a minimum distance of 3 meters between two elephants, 8 meters between elephants and the public or percussion displays, and a 100-meter buffer zone near fireworks areas.
- Elephants are required to have at least three days of rest between public appearances.
- The Kerala High Court has issued specific guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of elephants, participants, and the public during the festival. Key directives include: