China has entered into agreements with rebel organizations for the illegal extraction of rare earth minerals in Myanmar's Kachin region. This ensures a stable supply of minerals for China, while India faces difficulties in accessing these resources. China's move is causing pollution and an environmental crisis for the local population.
Rare Earth Mining: China has strengthened its grip on rare earth minerals in Myanmar's Kachin region through secret deals with rebel factions. These minerals are used in mobile phones, batteries, and high-tech equipment. China is extensively mining these resources and transporting them near the Indian border. India has begun efforts to collect samples by collaborating with the KIA at an initial stage, but the real challenge lies in China's dominance and local instability. This situation is creating strategic concerns for India and an environmental crisis for the people of Myanmar.
China's Deal with Myanmar's Rebel Groups
Media reports indicate that China has made secret agreements with active rebel organizations in Myanmar's Kachin area, namely the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO). Under these agreements, China has been granted mining rights in exchange for substantial tax payments to the rebels. Through this arrangement, China is extracting minerals on a large scale and transporting them directly to its factories.
China's Grip Strengthened
Mining activities accelerated significantly after the military coup in Myanmar in 2021. Approximately 240 new mines were opened in just four years. Two-thirds of these are located in rebel-controlled areas, which are proving to be a goldmine for China. To date, China has already acquired over 170,000 tons of rare earth minerals from Myanmar.
Some time ago, Kachin rebels attempted to halt supplies to China but could not sustain the stoppage for long. Pro-China factions soon regained control of the mines, and supplies were restored.
India's Growing Difficulties
India is also looking towards Myanmar for these minerals. According to reports, India's Ministry of Mines has assigned government and private companies the task of collecting mineral samples from Myanmar's Kachin region. Companies named include the government-owned IREL and the private company Midwest Advanced Materials.
However, this path is not easy for India. The mines from which minerals are being extracted are located in dense forests and are very close to the Chinese border. China would not want India to receive a supply of these minerals. This is why India is currently only able to operate at an initial stage.
Crisis for Local People
The worst impact of this mining in Myanmar is being felt by the local population. Toxic chemicals are contaminating rivers and land during mining operations. Agriculture is being ruined, and even clean drinking water is scarce. According to a Global Witness report, Myanmar's poor and tribal communities are severely affected by China's actions. These people are bearing the real cost of the minerals that are driving the world towards green energy.
China's Dual Strategy
In the current situation in Myanmar, China's strategy is evident. On one hand, it is connected to the government of the country, and on the other, it has made deals with rebel groups. This means China has secured its benefits from both sides. This situation could become even more challenging for India, as China is not only consolidating its hold on minerals but also manipulating the political situation in Myanmar to its advantage.
