India’s Environment Minister has strongly defended the government’s definition of the Aravalli range amid mounting criticism from environmentalists, conservation groups, and policy experts. The debate centres on how the Aravallis—one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges—are defined and classified for the purposes of environmental regulation, land use, and development control. Critics argue that the current definition could weaken protections for ecologically sensitive areas, while the government maintains that the approach is legally sound and scientifically justified.

Responding to concerns, the Environment Minister said the definition of the Aravalli range has been framed in accordance with existing laws, judicial precedents, and technical inputs from expert agencies. The minister emphasized that the government remains committed to protecting the fragile ecosystem of the Aravallis, which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, preventing desertification, and supporting biodiversity across parts of Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Gujarat.

The Aravalli hills act as a natural barrier against the spread of the Thar Desert and serve as an important groundwater recharge zone. Environmentalists fear that narrowing or altering the definition could open up large tracts of land to mining, construction, and industrial activity. Several activist groups have warned that such changes may accelerate deforestation, groundwater depletion, and air pollution in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas.

The Environment Minister, however, rejected allegations that the definition was designed to dilute environmental safeguards. He stated that environmental clearances, forest protection laws, and wildlife regulations would continue to apply wherever ecological sensitivity is established, regardless of classification disputes. According to the government, the aim is to bring clarity and consistency to regulatory frameworks, not to facilitate unchecked development.

The issue has also drawn attention because of ongoing legal cases and past Supreme Court directives related to mining bans and environmental protection in the Aravalli region. The minister noted that the government’s stance respects judicial rulings and seeks to avoid ambiguity that could hinder enforcement or lead to prolonged litigation. Clear definitions, he argued, are essential for effective governance and balanced development.

Experts remain divided on the issue. While some policy analysts agree that regulatory clarity is necessary, others insist that a broader, more inclusive definition is critical to ensure long-term conservation. They stress that the Aravallis are already under immense pressure from urban expansion, infrastructure projects, and illegal mining, making strong protections more important than ever.

In conclusion, the Environment Minister’s defence of the Aravalli definition highlights the ongoing tension between environmental conservation and developmental priorities in India. As the debate continues, the challenge for policymakers will be to ensure that legal clarity does not come at the cost of ecological integrity. The future of the Aravalli range, a vital natural asset, will depend on how effectively environmental safeguards are implemented on the ground, beyond definitions and policy statements.