Polity & Governance GS 2 In the news 9 times

Aravalli Range

Ecological Significance and Legal Protection

The Aravalli Range, stretching approximately 692 km from Gujarat through Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi, is one of the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world (dating to the Proterozoic era). It serves as a critical ecological barrier against desertification of the Indo-Gangetic plains, acts as a groundwater recharge zone, and supports significant biodiversity. Legal protection has come through multiple instruments, including the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA) 1900, the Forest Conservation Act 1980, and various Supreme Court orders.

Key details

The PLPA (1900) protected designated villages in Haryana through Section 4 and Section 5 notifications
The CEC, constituted under the Environment Protection Act, has been monitoring Aravalli protection since 2002
Supreme Court orders have historically prohibited mining and construction in ecologically sensitive areas of the Aravallis
Haryana attempted to dilute PLPA protections through amendments, which were challenged in courts

In the news

● Tracked since February 13, 2026 · last seen May 31, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes

31 May '26

You saw Churu dust storm videos. Aravallis protect Gangetic plains from that, but shield is weakening

Environment & Ecology

25 May '26

Supreme Court considers bigger public participation in defining Aravalli

Environment & Ecology

13 Apr '26

Can the apex court’s high-powered panel file a report that prioritises conservation and protection of the Aravallis?

Environment & Ecology

21 Mar '26