Consider the following statements:1.The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.2.India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters.3.'Rare earth minerals' are present on seafloor in international waters.Which of the statements given above are correct?

1. A

   1 and 2 only

   1 and 2 only. The International Seabed Authority, not the Global Ocean Commission, issues Area licences.

2. B

   2 and 3 only

   2 and 3 only. India holds ISA exploration contracts; seafloor polymetallic crusts hold rare earths. Wrong licensor in 1.

3. C

   1 and 3 only

   1 and 3 only. Statement 1 fails.

4. D

   1, 2 and 3

   All three. Global Ocean Commission is a think-tank, not the miner’s registrar.

Summary. Official key is (b) 2 and 3 only. Licences in ‘the Area’ come from the International Seabed Authority. India has nodule/sulphide contracts. Rare earths occur in seafloor crusts. The Global Ocean Commission does not grant those licences.