Concerns about the Aravalli range are growing. Recently, the Supreme Court approved recommendations that could redefine its boundaries for mining. This change considers only areas above 100 meters in elevation, leaving 90% of the landscape open to potential mining.
Yadav, defending this decision, believes it will help conservation. However, it’s a controversial move. The court ignored warnings from its own Central Empowered Committee, which advised against these changes. Public outcry from the states surrounding the Aravallis led the Supreme Court to agree to revisit its ruling.
Tanmay Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), stressed that community involvement is key to preserving the Aravalli range. He noted progress with the Aravalli Green Wall Project (AGWP), which aims to restore degraded lands. So far, 6.45 million hectares have been identified, and 2.7 million hectares are being restored across Gujarat, Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Haryana’s Environment Minister Rao Narbir Singh pointed out another issue: shrinking grasslands and forests are pushing wildlife into human habitats, leading to conflicts. He mentioned, “We are focusing on planting native trees and reviving water sources to help the Aravallis.”
Research shows that community-led conservation efforts can lead to positive outcomes. A study by the World Resources Institute reveals that communities engaged in environmental programs are more likely to support successful conservation.
In today’s climate crisis, protecting regions like the Aravallis is crucial. The balance between development and conservation is delicate. Each decision affects biodiversity, local communities, and the environment.
For more insights, you can read the full study by the World Resources Institute here.
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