Short Description:
The Indian government has imposed a ban on new mining leases in the Aravalli region, aiming to enhance environmental protection and conserve one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges.
Read Time: 4 minutes, 15 seconds
The Crucial Ban on Aravalli Mining Leases
In a landmark decision, the Indian government announced a comprehensive ban on new mining leases in the Aravalli mountain range, extending from Delhi to Gujarat. This move is pivotal, particularly in light of growing public concerns over the ecological impacts of mining activities. The Centre’s directive focuses on enhancing conservation efforts in this ecologically rich area, which comprises one of the world’s oldest mountain systems. As environmental issues rise on the global agenda, nations must increasingly prioritize sustainable practices, and this decision reflects such a commitment.
The Union Ministry of Environment emphasizes that the ban aims to safeguard the Aravallis, protecting them as a continuous geological ridge. The authorities have tasked the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to identify additional zones where mining will be prohibited based on scientific assessments of ecological, geological, and landscape factors. This proactive approach aims to curb unregulated mining and preserve the region’s diverse biodiversity, making it crucial for long-term environmental sustainability.
This decision is particularly relevant given the Supreme Court’s recent endorsement of a “new definition” of the Aravalli hills, classifying any land with an elevation exceeding 100 meters as part of this ancient range. While this classification aims to offer more extensive protection, concerns remain. Many stakeholders fear that over 90% of the Aravalli region may still be exposed to mining activities, as numerous landforms lie beneath this elevation threshold. With heightened vigilance and the establishment of clearly defined protected zones, the government’s efforts appear to strive for a balance between economic needs and ecological safeguarding.
The Ministry’s approach includes strict compliance checks for existing operations to ensure adherence to environmental safeguards and Supreme Court directives. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has reiterated that no new mining leases will be approved, especially in core areas crucial for environmental health. Initiatives such as the Aravalli Green Wall Project and the expansion of Ramsar sites reflect the ongoing efforts to strike a balance between economic development and ecological conservation.
Short Summary:
The Indian government’s ban on new mining leases in the Aravalli region signifies a crucial step toward ecological protection and sustainable development. As the authorities seek to better manage this vital geological area, concerns about the impact of mining remain. Nevertheless, the commitment to environmental safeguards and scientific assessment remains firm, ensuring ongoing efforts toward preserving the Aravalli mountain range’s ecological integrity.
