UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 90
Consider the following statements:
- The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.
- India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters.
- 'Rare earth minerals' are present on seafloor in international waters.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Correct Option: B (2 and 3 only)
Explanation: The International Seabed Authority-not the Global Ocean Commission-regulates mineral exploration in the international seabed Area. India has ISA exploration contracts and seabed minerals include rare-earth-bearing deposits.
Statement / Pair / Item-wise Analysis:
1. Incorrect / does not qualify - Licences/contracts are administered by the International Seabed Authority, not a Global Ocean Commission.
2. Correct / qualifies - India holds international seabed exploration contracts, including polymetallic-nodule areas.
3. Correct / qualifies - Rare-earth elements occur in deep-sea mineral resources including cobalt-rich crusts and muds.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Incorrect-includes item 1, which is not valid (Licences/contracts are administered by the International Seabed Authority, not a Global Ocean Commission); omits valid item 3 (Rare-earth elements occur in deep-sea mineral resources including cobalt-rich crusts and muds).
B. Correct-selects exactly the supported statements/items: 2, 3.
C. Incorrect-includes item 1, which is not valid (Licences/contracts are administered by the International Seabed Authority, not a Global Ocean Commission); omits valid item 2 (India holds international seabed exploration contracts, including polymetallic-nodule areas).
D. Incorrect-includes item 1, which is not valid (Licences/contracts are administered by the International Seabed Authority, not a Global Ocean Commission).