Why India’s Critical Minerals Future Ties to Argentina?

Why This Matters for Exams
This story is crucial for UPSC, SSC, PSC, and design exams (like NID/NIFT) because:
Prelims: Tests current international relations (India-Argentina deals, UPI’s global reach).
Mains GS-II: Covers bilateral agreements, energy security, and mineral resource strategy.
Design Exams: Critical minerals (lithium, copper) impact sustainable design and industrial innovation.


Rewritten Content (Human-Centric & Exam-Focused)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Argentina’s President Javier Milei held groundbreaking talks in Buenos Aires, targeting collaborations that could reshape India’s energy and tech landscape. From Argentina’s vast shale gas reserves to its treasure trove of critical minerals like lithium and copper, this partnership aims to fuel India’s green energy transition and defence ambitions.

Key Highlights:
Energy Diversification: Argentina holds the world’s 2nd-largest shale gas and 4th-largest shale oil reserves—a potential lifeline for India’s energy needs.
Mineral Security: India’s public venture KABIL secured lithium concessions here in 2024, securing raw materials for EVs and renewables.
Trade & Tech: Fast-tracking a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) and adopting India’s UPI system to ease payments.
First in 57 Years: Modi’s visit marks the first bilateral PM-level trip since Indira Gandhi’s 1968 tour.

Why Argentina?
As India’s strategic partner since 2019, Argentina offers:
Critical Minerals: Essential for India’s clean energy goals.
Defence & Space: Joint manufacturing and research opportunities.
Economic Reforms: Mirroring India’s past transformations, creating synergy.


Sample Exam Q&A
Q1. Which global rank does Argentina hold in shale gas reserves?
A: Argentina has the world’s 2nd-largest shale gas reserves, making it pivotal for India’s energy diversification.
Q2. How does the India-Argentina partnership support India’s clean energy transition?
A: Argentina’s lithium and copper reserves supply raw materials for batteries and renewables, reducing import dependency.
Q3. What is a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA)?
A: A PTA lowers tariffs on select goods between countries, boosting trade without a full free-trade deal.
Q4. Which Indian company secured mining concessions in Argentina in 2024?
A: KABIL (Khanij Bidesh India Ltd), a state-owned joint venture, won lithium mining rights.
Q5. Why is Modi’s 2024 Argentina visit historically significant?
A: It’s the first bilateral PM-level visit since Indira Gandhi’s 1968 trip, signaling renewed focus on Latin America.