In the News: Copper prices reached an all-time high of over $12,500 per tonne on the London Metal Exchange (LME) in late December 2025, driven by supply chain constraints and the energy transition.
The "Doctor Copper" Phenomenon
- Economic Barometer: Copper is known as "Dr. Copper" because its price is a leading indicator of global economic health due to its use in almost all sectors.
- Supply Scarcity: Factors include mining disruptions in Chile and Panama, combined with a "rush" to stock metal in the US ahead of potential tariff changes.
- Demand Drivers: The global push for Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Renewable Energy (wind/solar) requires 4–5 times more copper than traditional fossil fuel systems.
India’s Strategic Position
- Import Dependency: India is a net importer of copper ore. High prices impact India's Current Account Deficit (CAD) and the cost of the National Infrastructure Pipeline.
- Policy Focus: Mention the Critical Minerals Mission aimed at securing overseas copper assets (e.g., in the "Copper Belt" of Zambia and DRC).
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
