Is There Really No Relaxation in Aravallis? Union Minister Bhupender Yadav Denounces 'Misinformation Campaign'
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Synopsis
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav strongly refutes allegations of relaxed protection norms for the Aravalli range, emphasizing the ongoing judicial scrutiny. He highlights that only a minuscule portion of the region is eligible for mining, warning against misleading narratives fueling confusion.
Key Takeaways
- No relaxation of protective measures for the Aravalli range has been granted.
- Only 0.19 percent of the area is eligible for mining.
- The Supreme Court mandates a unified definition of the Aravalli range.
- The 100-meter protection buffer applies from the mountain's base.
- Mining is prohibited in the Aravalli hills of Delhi.
New Delhi, Dec 21 (NationPress) Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav firmly dismissed allegations regarding the weakening of protective measures for the Aravalli range, emphasizing that "no relaxation has been granted" and cautioning against what he described as a systematic effort to create misunderstandings surrounding this longstanding and critical environmental matter.
During a press briefing in Kolkata, Yadav highlighted that the Aravalli range, recognized as one of the planet's oldest mountain systems, extends across four states — Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat — encompassing 39 districts and covering an approximate area of 1.44 lakh square kilometers.
He stated, "The issue regarding the Aravalli range has been under judicial examination since 1985. The focus has always been on stringent regulations, particularly concerning mining activities."
The minister pointed out that the Supreme Court has mandated all four states to adopt a standardized definition of the Aravalli range to avoid regulatory loopholes. According to him, this definition is derived from a geological study conducted by Richard Murphy in 1968, which includes a 100-meter protection buffer.
Yadav added, "Certain individuals and YouTube channels are misleading the public by asserting that the 100-meter rule is applicable solely to the mountain's summit. This is entirely inaccurate."
He clarified that the protective zone extends from the mountain's base, stating, "Even if the base is situated 20 meters underground, the protection commences from that point."
Yadav reiterated that mining activities are completely prohibited in the Aravalli hills of Delhi, and the matter is still under the Supreme Court's review.
He affirmed, "We are collaborating closely with the court. Any assertions that mining has been allowed or eased in Delhi's Aravalli region are incorrect."
Emphasizing the extent of protection, he noted that out of the total 1.44 lakh sq km of the Aravalli region, merely about 0.19 percent of the area may qualify for mining under current legal frameworks, while the remaining territory remains fully safeguarded.
Yadav concluded with a strong message, "The Aravalli is secure. Stop disseminating false information."
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of Minister Yadav's statements regarding the Aravalli range. The issue at hand is not just about mining; it affects the ecological balance and the livelihood of many communities. Our commitment is to present factual information while scrutinizing the narratives surrounding environmental protection.
NationPress
23/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Aravalli range's protection?
The Aravalli range is under strict protection regulations, with no relaxations permitted for mining activities as per Union Minister Bhupender Yadav.
How much of the Aravalli area is eligible for mining?
Only approximately 0.19 percent of the total 1.44 lakh sq km Aravalli area is considered eligible for mining under current laws.
What has the Supreme Court directed regarding the Aravalli range?
The Supreme Court has instructed all four states to adopt a uniform definition of the Aravalli range to prevent regulatory loopholes.
What misinformation is being spread about the Aravalli range?
Some claims suggest that the 100-meter protection rule only applies to the mountain's summit, which is inaccurate; the protection extends from the base of the mountain.
Is mining allowed in the Aravalli hills?
Mining activities are entirely banned in the Aravalli hills of Delhi and remain under review by the Supreme Court.
