Modi Flags Weaponisation of Tech, Critical Minerals

Key Highlights & Summary 

• Warning Against Weaponisation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned against the \'weaponisation\' of technology and critical mineral access, stating it hinders shared global progress. 

• Focus on Concrete Actions: Entering its third decade, the 11-member BRICS grouping must shift from \'merely ideas\' to delivering concrete results and commitments. 

• Global South Engagement: Confidence of Global South nations in BRICS has expanded as their voices are heard and solutions are co-developed rather than imposed.

 • Supply Chain Resilience: New initiatives were highlighted to strengthen supply chains against global disruptions, pandemics, and climate disasters. 

• Interconnected Vulnerabilities: Emphasised that in an interconnected world, regional crises, climate challenges, and disruptions impact ordinary lives globally. 

Essential Definitions 

• Critical Minerals: Non-fuel mineral elements (e.g., lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements) vital for modern technology, clean energy transitions, national security, and industrial supply chains.

 • Weaponisation of Technology/Minerals: The strategic practice of leveraging tech monopolies or critical mineral supply dominance as political tools to exert pressure on other nations. 

• Global South: A geopolitical term referring broadly to developing, emerging, or economically disadvantaged nations predominantly located in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. 

Legal and Constitutional Framework

  • Article 51 (Directive Principles of State Policy): Mandates the promotion of international peace, security, and just, honourable relations between nations.

 • Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023: Empowers the Indian government to exclusively auction and develop critical and strategic minerals to secure domestic supply chains. 

• National Critical Minerals Mission: India\'s domestic policy framework aimed at enhancing exploration, processing, recycling, and foreign acquisition of critical mineral assets

 Conclusion Addressing tech and critical mineral weaponisation requires multilateral cooperation and inclusive governance. As BRICS expands its footprint, prioritizing resilient supply chains and equitable technology access remains pivotal for safeguarding global economic stability and supporting Global South development. 

UPSC Relevance 

• GS Paper II: International Relations (Bilateral, regional, and global groupings involving India; Effect of policies of developed/developing countries on India\'s interests). 

• GS Paper III: Economy & Security (Infrastructure, Supply Chain Resilience, Industrial Growth, Mineral Resources, and Technology Transfer).