The central government has taken a decisive step to protect the fragile Aravalli mountain range by directing states to stop granting new mining leases across the region. The move signals a tougher environmental stance as concerns grow over illegal mining, water depletion, and desertification in north-west India.
The decision was announced on December 24 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). It comes amid public protests and political pressure to save the Aravallis, one of the world’s oldest geological formations.
The Centre also ordered an expansion of protected zones following criticism over the earlier definition of the Aravalli hills.
Why the Aravalli Range Matters?
Stretching from Gujarat to the National Capital Region, the Aravallis act as a natural barrier against desert spread. The range plays a key role in groundwater recharge, climate regulation, and biodiversity conservation.
Several major rivers, including the Chambal and Sabarmati, originate from the Aravallis. Millions depend on these water systems for farming and livelihoods. Environmental experts warn that unchecked mining has weakened the range and increased pollution levels in nearby cities.
What the Centre Said on the Mining Ban?
In its official statement, the environment ministry made its position clear.
“The directions are aimed at safeguarding the Aravallis as a continuous geological ridge extending from Gujarat to the National Capital Region, and at stopping all unregulated mining activities,” it said, adding, “Government of India stands fully committed towards long-term protection of the Aravalli ecosystem, recognising its critical role in preventing desertification, conserving biodiversity, recharging aquifers, and environmental services for the region.”
The ban applies to all new mining leases across the Aravalli landscape.
Expansion of Protected Zones Explained
The Centre has asked the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to identify additional areas where mining must be prohibited. ICFRE will assess regions based on ecological value, geology, and landscape sensitivity.
These zones will go beyond areas already protected under existing rules. This move will bring larger portions of the Aravallis under strict environmental safeguards.
New Plan for Sustainable Mining
The government has also directed ICFRE to prepare a Management Plan for Sustainable Mining (MPSM) for the entire Aravalli range.
The plan will study environmental impact, measure ecological carrying capacity, and identify conservation-critical areas. It will also outline steps for the restoration and rehabilitation of damaged zones. The draft plan will go through wider stakeholder consultation.
What About Existing Mining Operations?
The Centre clarified that mining already in operation will not stop immediately. However, states must ensure strict compliance with environmental laws and Supreme Court orders.
“Ongoing mining activities are to be regulated stringently, with additional restrictions, to ensure environmental protection and adherence to sustainable mining practices,” the ministry said. States will face tighter scrutiny over violations.
Climate and Urban Impact
Experts say protecting the Aravallis will also help curb rising temperatures in cities like Delhi, Gurugram, and Faridabad. The range acts as a natural heat shield and dust barrier. Environmental groups believe the ban could mark a turning point in India’s climate resilience strategy if enforced properly.
