New Delhi, December 25, 2025 – In a significant move to protect one of the world’s oldest mountain systems, the Union Environment Ministry has directed states to enforce a complete ban on granting new mining leases across the entire Aravalli range, stretching from Gujarat to the National Capital Region (NCR).
The directive, issued on Wednesday, comes amid widespread public concern over the Supreme Court’s recent acceptance of a new definition of the Aravalli hills – classifying landforms with an elevation of 100 metres or more above local relief as protected hills. Critics feared this could potentially expose over 90% of the range to mining activities, as most features fall below this threshold.
The ministry emphasized that the decision aims at the “conservation and protection” of the Aravallis as a continuous geological ridge, crucial for preventing desertification, conserving biodiversity, and recharging groundwater aquifers.
Key highlights of the directive:
- No new mining leases will be permitted until a comprehensive Management Plan for Sustainable Mining (MPSM) is finalized.
- The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) has been tasked with identifying additional prohibited zones based on ecological, geological, and landscape assessments, expanding protected areas beyond those already notified.
- Existing operational mines must adhere to strict environmental safeguards and Supreme Court orders.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav addressed the controversy earlier this week, stating that no new leases would be allowed in core, protected, or ecologically sensitive areas, including the NCR. He highlighted government initiatives like the Aravalli Green Wall Project and affirmed the NDA government’s commitment to balancing ecology and economy.
Environmentalists and opposition parties have welcomed the ban but continue to call for stronger measures to curb illegal mining and ensure long-term restoration of the fragile ecosystem.
This development reinforces India’s efforts to safeguard the Aravallis, a vital natural barrier against the advancing Thar Desert.
