Why Did Quad’s New Statement Put Spotlight on Pahalgam Terror Attack?

Key Developments from the Quad Meeting
Strong Stance on Terrorism: Quad demanded immediate justice for perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack and urged global cooperation under international law.
Critical Minerals Initiative Launched: A new partnership to secure supply chains for minerals vital to tech (EVs, semiconductors), reducing reliance on China.
Security & Prosperity Focus: Quad reaffirmed commitment to a free Indo-Pacific, opposing coercion in the South China Sea and supporting ASEAN centrality.
India’s Leadership Role: New Delhi will host the 2025 Quad Leaders’ Summit and launch the “Quad Ports of the Future” initiative in Mumbai.
Humanitarian Aid: Quad allocated $30+ million for Myanmar earthquake relief, highlighting crisis-response coordination.


Why This Matters for Exams
Prelims (Current Affairs): Directly linked to “international groupings affecting India” (UPSC Prelims).
Mains (GS-II): Tests understanding of Quad’s strategic impact, India’s multilateral diplomacy, and supply chain security.
Design Exams (NID/NIFT): Critical minerals power tech innovation (e.g., EV design, electronics)—a growing interdisciplinary topic.
Broader Relevance: Illustrates how geopolitics intersects with economic security (key for SSC/PSC essays).


Sample Q&A for Self-Testing
Q: Which initiative did Quad launch to reduce dependency on China for tech resources?
A: The Quad Critical Minerals Initiative to diversify supply chains.
Q: What was Quad’s response to the Pahalgam terror attack?
A: It called for perpetrators to be brought to justice and urged UN members to cooperate under international law.
Q: Which country will host the 2025 Quad Leaders’ Summit?
A: India will host the summit later this year.
Q: Name one strategic area Quad prioritized in its 2025 agenda.
A: Maritime security, economic resilience, critical tech, or humanitarian aid (any one).
Q: Why are rare earth magnets crucial for India’s future?
A: They’re vital for manufacturing EVs, semiconductors, and defense tech—sectors central to India’s growth.

Key Terms to Remember
Quad Members: India, USA, Japan, Australia.
Critical Minerals: Rare earth elements (e.g., neodymium) used in EVs, renewables, and electronics.
China’s Dominance: Controls 90%+ of rare earth processing—Quad aims to counter this.
Indo-Pacific Focus: Quad opposes “coercion” in South China Sea, backs ASEAN unity.
Pro Tip: Link Quad’s moves to India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” in exams—e.g., critical minerals reduce import reliance!