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15 Jan 2026·Source: The Hindu
4 min
Environment & EcologyEnvironment & EcologyPolity & GovernanceNEWS

Rajasthan: Illegal Mining in Aravalli Districts Aggravated by Protection Removal

Rajasthan's Aravalli districts face disproportionate illegal mining, threatening ecological balance.

Rajasthan: Illegal Mining in Aravalli Districts Aggravated by Protection Removal

Photo by Prince Lewis

Districts in Rajasthan, encompassing approximately 70% of the Aravalli range, are grappling with a surge in illegal mining activities. These districts account for over 77% of the First Information Reports (FIRs) lodged for illegal mining in the state, despite contributing only 40% to its total mineral output. Proposed changes to the legal definition of 'Aravalli hill' could potentially remove protections against mining from vast stretches of the range, exacerbating the situation. The Supreme Court, in May 2024, noted the lack of a consistent definition of the Aravalli hills across states as a key factor enabling illegal mining. A technical committee suggested that any landform with a slope of at least 4.57 degrees and a height of at least 30 metres be identified as an Aravalli hill. However, the Environment Ministry proposed a different approach, suggesting that only landforms in Aravalli districts rising at least 100 metres above the local relief be classified as Aravalli hills. The Aravalli range, approximately 560 km of which lies within Rajasthan, is ecologically vital, slowing the spread of sand and dust from the Thar Desert and supporting groundwater recharge.

Key Facts

1.

Aravalli range in Rajasthan: 560 km

2.

Aravalli districts' FIR share: Over 77%

3.

Rajasthan's mineral output from Aravalli: 40%

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Environment and Ecology, Conservation

2.

GS Paper I: Geography, Important Geophysical Phenomena

3.

Potential for questions on environmental governance, sustainable development, and judicial interventions

Visual Insights

Aravalli Range: Illegal Mining Hotspots in Rajasthan

This map highlights the Aravalli districts in Rajasthan affected by illegal mining, showing the concentration of FIRs and their contribution to the state's mineral output.

Loading interactive map...

📍Rajasthan📍Haryana📍Gujarat📍Delhi
More Information

Background

The Aravalli Range, one of the oldest fold mountains in the world, predates the Himalayas. Its formation dates back to the Precambrian era, approximately 3 billion years ago. Historically, the range has played a crucial role in the ecological and economic landscape of northwestern India.

During the British colonial period, mining activities in the Aravallis were largely unregulated, leading to initial degradation. Post-independence, various legislations were enacted to protect the range, but enforcement remained a challenge. The Supreme Court's intervention in the late 20th and early 21st centuries marked a significant turning point, highlighting the need for a consistent definition and stringent measures to curb illegal mining.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been increased scrutiny on environmental regulations and their impact on economic activities. The debate surrounding the definition of 'Aravalli hill' reflects this tension. The proposed relaxation of the definition, driven by economic considerations, has faced opposition from environmental groups and legal experts.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has also played a role in monitoring and addressing illegal mining activities in the Aravallis. Looking ahead, the implementation of sustainable mining practices and stricter enforcement of environmental laws are crucial for preserving the ecological integrity of the Aravalli Range. Technological interventions, such as satellite monitoring and drone surveillance, are also being explored to detect and prevent illegal mining.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Aravalli Range: 1. It is one of the oldest fold mountains in the world. 2. It acts as a barrier, preventing the Thar Desert from spreading eastward. 3. The majority of illegal mining FIRs in Rajasthan originate from districts within the Aravalli range, despite their lower mineral output. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

All three statements are correct. The Aravalli Range is ancient, acts as a desert barrier, and faces significant illegal mining issues despite lower mineral output compared to other regions of Rajasthan.

2. In the context of the ongoing debate regarding the definition of 'Aravalli hill', consider the following statements: 1. The Supreme Court has emphasized the need for a consistent definition across states to combat illegal mining. 2. The Environment Ministry's proposed definition suggests a minimum height of 100 meters above local relief for a landform to be classified as an Aravalli hill. 3. A technical committee proposed a slope of at least 4.57 degrees and a height of at least 30 meters for identification as an Aravalli hill. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

All three statements accurately reflect the current situation and proposed definitions related to Aravalli hills.

3. Which of the following is NOT a significant ecological function of the Aravalli Range?

  • A.Groundwater recharge
  • B.Slowing the spread of desertification
  • C.Supporting biodiversity
  • D.Promoting heavy industrial activity
Show Answer

Answer: D

The Aravalli Range is crucial for groundwater recharge, preventing desertification, and supporting biodiversity. Promoting heavy industrial activity is not an ecological function and can be detrimental to the environment.

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