Kumud MishraAIR 69 · CSE 2024 · 229 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a definition
The minerals refers to the critical earth elements which may occur in free state (like gold, silver) or in combination of various elements (ex. Quartz, feldspar, olivine, Amphibole, etc.)
Body · points and prose
Uneven distribution of mineral resources in the world
→ The African continent accounts for 60% of the critical metallic minerals. → The Middle East region, USA, Oceanic regions are rich source of crude petroleum and the polymetallic nodules. ⇒ The minerals are spatially distributed across continents and oceans.
The multidimensional implications
Social: → It results in prosperity of the region Ex Kolar gold mines in Karnataka. → However, it even results in the "resource curse". Ex. Africa suffering from social ethnic conflicts poverty despite the resources.
Economic: → Facilitates the country's economy. Ex. China is a leader in Rare Earth Elements (REE) → adds to economic potential Ex. USA with largest gold reserve.
→ However it even leads to "drain of wealth" Ex from Africa, Latin America.
Political: → Results in political tensions and conflicts Ex → US-china trade war, → China banning export of REE like Gallium, Germanium.
Environmental: → Leads to exploitation beyond carrying capacity Ex. Himalayan region in India → Threatens livelihoods of the local inhabitants, flora, fauna.
Close · a way forward
Ex. issue of blood gold and Yanomami tribe (Amazon).
Thus, there is the need for sustainable and wise use of these resources for collective development and better inclusive innovation.