Centre Bans New Aravalli Mining Leases, Expands Protected Zone
Centre Bans New Aravalli Mining Leases, Expands Protected Zone
Centre halts new mining leases in the Aravallis, expands protected areas and orders a science-led plan for sustainable mining to safeguard the ancient range.
The Centre has ordered a nationwide halt on new mining leases across the Aravalli range, covering states from Gujarat to the National Capital Region. The move comes amid years of environmental concerns and court orders, with officials saying existing mines will be allowed to operate only if they strictly comply with norms.
The Environment Ministry has directed states to enforce the Supreme Court’s directive and to task the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) with preparing a Management Plan for Sustainable Mining. The plan will identify which areas may be opened for mining and which are ecologically sensitive or restoration-priority, with the exercise to be placed in the public domain for wide stakeholder consultation.
The government says the aim is to expand protected zones to ensure Aravalli's ecological continuity. ICFRE will map additional areas and lay down measures for restoration and rehabilitation. No deadline has been set to complete the exercise.
Reaction to the move has been mixed. Some environmentalists welcomed stronger protections, while critics argued about the 100-metre standard that would regulate mining; a senior Congress leader called the move a bogus attempt at damage control. The broader debate over how to balance economic development with conservation continues.
Experts say the plan will assess cumulative environmental impacts and carrying capacity, and will include rehabilitation and restoration strategies.
