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PIB Summary- 25th March, 2025 - UPSC PDF Download

Strategic Supply Chain Management for Critical Minerals

Context

Approved on January 29, 2025, the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) aims to ensure a sustainable supply of critical minerals, strengthening India's exploration, mining, and processing capabilities.

National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) - Key Highlights

  • Comprehensive Value Chain: Covers all stages from exploration, mining, beneficiation, processing, and recovery from end-of-life products.
  • Increasing Domestic Production: Focus on enhancing domestic extraction and refining of critical minerals.
  • Overseas Asset Acquisition: Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) leads overseas acquisitions to secure mineral supplies.
  • Argentina Collaboration: KABIL signed an agreement with CAMYEN for lithium brine exploration across 15,703 Ha in Argentina.
  • Australia Partnership: MoU signed with Australia's CMFO for joint due diligence and investment in lithium and cobalt assets.
  • Processing & Recycling Budget: ₹500 crore allocated for processing parks, ₹1,500 crore for recycling.
  • Skill Development & R&D: Provisions have been made for workforce training and research support.
  • Governance Framework: Empowered Committee led by the Cabinet Secretary, with NITI Aayog CEO and key ministry officials.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION
Try yourself: What is the primary goal of the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM)?
A

To reduce imports of food products

B

To ensure a sustainable supply of critical minerals

C

To promote tourism in India

D

To increase the number of universities


EDUCATION FOR ALL


Context

The Department of School Education and Literacy is implementing Samagra Shiksha, an integrated centrally sponsored scheme for school education.

Overview

  • It covers pre-primary to Class XII in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
  • The scheme ensures quality, equitable, and inclusive education, considering students' diverse backgrounds, languages, and academic abilities.

Key Provisions for Students

  • Financial assistance is provided to States and UTs for various components, including:
  • Free uniforms and textbooks at the elementary level.
  • Transport and escort facilities for students up to the secondary level.
  • Special training programs for out-of-school children to help them rejoin education.
  • Support for older students (16-19 years) through NIOS/SIOS for completing education.
  • Bilingual teaching materials and Holistic Progress Cards.

School Infrastructure Development
Funding is provided for:

  • Opening and strengthening new schools up to the senior secondary level.
  • Construction of school buildings, classrooms, hostels, and labs under various government programs.
  • Smart Classrooms, ICT Labs, and digital initiatives like PM e-Vidya, DIKSHA, and SWAYAM PRABHA DTH-TV Channels.

Support for Children with Special Needs (CwSN)
Assistance includes:

  • Identification and assessment using the Prashast App.
  • Braille kits, books, and learning materials for differently-abled students.
  • Stipends for girl students with disabilities.
  • Infrastructure like ramps, handrails, and accessible toilets.
  • Teacher training under NISHTHA to support inclusive education.

New India Literacy Programme (NILP) - ULLAS

  • Targets non-literate individuals aged 15+ who missed formal schooling.
  • Implemented from FY 2022-23 to 2026-27.
  • ULLAS App helps in registering learners and volunteer teachers.
  • Over 2.20 crore learners and 40 lakh volunteer teachers have registered.
  • The app provides learning materials in all languages.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION
Try yourself: What is the main goal of the Samagra Shiksha scheme?
A

To provide free meals to students.

B

To ensure quality, equitable, and inclusive education.

C

To build more universities.

D

To offer online courses only.

The document PIB Summary- 25th March, 2025 is a part of the UPSC Course Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly.
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FAQs on PIB Summary- 25th March, 2025

1. What are critical minerals, and why are they important for supply chain management?
Ans.Critical minerals are natural resources that are essential for the production of various technologies and industries, including electronics, renewable energy, and defense. Their importance in supply chain management stems from their limited availability, geopolitical risks associated with their extraction, and the increasing demand driven by technological advancements. Proper management of these minerals is crucial to ensure a stable supply chain that supports economic growth and technological innovation.
2. How can strategic supply chain management enhance the sustainability of critical minerals?
Ans.Strategic supply chain management can enhance the sustainability of critical minerals by optimizing resource extraction, reducing waste, and promoting recycling. By implementing sustainable practices, such as responsible sourcing and efficient logistics, companies can minimize environmental impacts. Additionally, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, including governments and industry players, can lead to the development of innovative solutions that support the sustainable management of these vital resources.
3. What challenges do countries face in securing their supply chains for critical minerals?
Ans.Countries face several challenges in securing their supply chains for critical minerals, including geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, and reliance on a limited number of suppliers. These challenges can lead to supply disruptions and increased costs. Furthermore, environmental regulations and public opposition to mining activities can complicate efforts to develop new sources. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive policies and international cooperation to ensure a stable and secure supply chain.
4. What role does technology play in the strategic management of critical minerals?
Ans.Technology plays a significant role in the strategic management of critical minerals by improving efficiency in extraction processes, enhancing resource tracking, and facilitating recycling efforts. Advanced technologies, such as blockchain, can provide transparency in the supply chain, while data analytics can optimize logistics and inventory management. Additionally, innovations in materials science can lead to the development of alternative materials, reducing dependence on critical minerals.
5. How can governments support the supply chain for critical minerals?
Ans.Governments can support the supply chain for critical minerals by implementing policies that promote sustainable mining practices, investing in research and development of alternative materials, and fostering international partnerships. Providing incentives for recycling and waste reduction can also enhance resource availability. Moreover, establishing strategic reserves and diversifying supply sources can help mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions.
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