Centre imposes ban on new mining leases in Aravallis; protected zone to be expanded

The Centre issued directions to Indian States for a complete ban on granting new mining leases in the Aravallis. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has also directed the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to identify additional areas where mining should be prohibited, based on ecological, geological, and landscape considerations. The plan will assess the cumulative environmental impact and ecological carrying capacity, identify ecologically sensitive areas, and lay down measures for restoration and rehabilitation. The government aims to protect the Aravallis as a continuous geological ridge extending from Gujarat to NCR, safeguarding its role in preventing desertification, conserving biodiversity, recharging aquifers, and providing environmental services.