In a major step towards protecting the Aravalli range, the central government on Wednesday, 24 December, announced a complete ban on granting new mining leases in the mountain range, as it declared its commitment to the long-term protection of the Aravalli ecosystem. The Centre also ordered the expansion of protected zones after pushback against the new definition of what constitutes the Aravalli hills. In a statement, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said the complete ban on granting new mining leases is meant to protect the integrity of the Aravalli range. Key points As per the central government's order, the ban applies across the entire Aravalli landscape – from Gujarat to the National Capital Region. “Ongoing mining activities are to be regulated stringently, with additional restrictions, to ensure environmental protection and adherence to sustainable mining practices,” it said.

Source: Mint December 24, 2025 20:34 UTC