Approach:

Introduction:

Mention the recent context and some basic uses of lithium.

Body: Emphasize the current significance of lithium metal under the energy security and economic development sub-heading. Also, give negative impact in a single paragraph.

Conclusion: Provide a balanced way forward in this regard.

Answer:

The geological survey of India has recently discovered lithium deposits in Jammu and Kashmir. Lithium is an essential component in producing rechargeable batteries, which are used in various electronic products, such as smartphones, laptops, and electric cars.

Effect on Energy Security:

1. Diversification of energy sources: The mining of lithium in India may help to the diversification of energy sources, hence decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. This may increase energy security by reducing a country's susceptibility to swings in global oil prices.
2. Reduced reliance on imports: India's lithium needs are now met by imports. Domestic extraction may lessen this reliance, therefore enhancing energy security by mitigating the effects of geopolitical tensions and supply chain interruptions.
3. Economic growth and employment creation may result from the establishment of a local lithium sector via lithium mining. This may increase energy security by making the economy more self-sufficient and resilient.
4. Environmental issues: The mining of lithium may have negative environmental effects, such as water shortages and pollution. Environmental hazards that might impact energy production or supply can be avoided by addressing these issues using sustainable extraction methods, hence enhancing energy security.
5. Technical breakthroughs: The development of lithium extraction technology may lead to technological improvements that can enhance the energy security of other industries. For instance, advances in energy storage might encourage the use of renewable energy, hence lowering dependency on fossil fuels.

Effect on Economic Development:

1. Job prospects: The extraction of lithium may provide employment opportunities in mining, processing, and associated sectors, hence contributing to economic growth via increasing incomes and decreased unemployment.
2. Development of local industries: Lithium extraction may foster the creation of local companies that provide products and services to the mining industry, therefore contributing to economic diversification and expansion.
3. The sale of lithium and associated goods may provide cash for the government, which can be utilized for public infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other development projects.
4. Transfer of technology: The use of modern mining and processing technologies may stimulate technology transfer and innovation, therefore contributing to the growth of the domestic technology sector.
5. International investment: Lithium extraction may attract foreign investment, which can lead to the formation of joint ventures, technological collaborations, and other types of cooperation that can boost economic growth via knowledge transfer and greater investment.

The negative impacts of lithium mining like water, soil, and air pollution, loss of species in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem will make lithium extraction unsustainable for both energy security and economic development. This need to be addressed before going for lithium extraction.

From two-wheelers to passenger automobiles and commercial vehicles, the automotive industry is turning toward electric propulsion. As India lacks conventional energy supplies other than coal, the lithium reserves might be a game-changer if they are mined in a sustainable and equitable way.