In a significant step toward environmental conservation, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has clarified that an overwhelming 99.81% of the Aravalli Hills is officially protected, with only 0.19% of the area eligible for mining activities. The announcement reinforces the government’s commitment to safeguarding one of India’s oldest and most ecologically sensitive mountain ranges.
Addressing concerns over alleged large-scale mining permissions, the Minister emphasized that the protected status of the Aravalli region remains firmly intact. He stated that strict environmental regulations and legal safeguards are in place to prevent ecological degradation, ensuring that the hills continue to serve as a natural barrier against desertification and a vital green lung for the National Capital Region (NCR).
A Crucial Ecological Shield
Stretching across Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat, the Aravalli range plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. It supports diverse flora and fauna, helps regulate groundwater levels, and acts as a buffer against the expansion of the Thar Desert. Environmental experts have long warned that unchecked mining could irreversibly damage this fragile ecosystem.
The clarification by the Environment Ministry comes amid heightened public discourse on conservation versus development. Officials reiterated that any permitted mining activity within the limited eligible area would be subject to stringent environmental clearances and continuous monitoring.
Balancing Development and Sustainability
The government’s stance reflects an effort to balance economic needs with long-term sustainability. “Protecting natural heritage is non-negotiable,” officials noted, adding that conservation of the Aravallis aligns with India’s broader climate commitments and vision for a greener future.
Environmentalists and policy analysts have largely welcomed the announcement, viewing it as a positive signal for conservation-led governance. Many believe that preserving the Aravalli Hills is essential not only for regional ecology but also for the health and well-being of millions living in surrounding urban centers.
With this clarification, the government has sought to reaffirm that environmental protection remains a priority, ensuring that development does not come at the cost of irreplaceable natural assets.