The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change unveiled a Detailed Action Plan for Aravalli Landscape Restoration during a national workshop in Udaipur. The initiative aims to restore the ecological integrity of the Aravalli Hill Range, spanning across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Delhi. This press release was issued on May 21, 2025.
The high-level workshop, organized by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Rajasthan Forest Department on the eve of the International Day for Biodiversity, brought together a wide array of stakeholders to finalize the action plan. The event was also graced by the Minister for Forest and Environment, Government of Rajasthan.
The Minister emphasized the launch of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam‘ initiative from the Delhi ridge, a part of the Aravallis, on World Environment Day last year. He highlighted that the Aravalli Green Wall Project will not only increase green cover and biodiversity through afforestation and water body restoration but also enhance soil fertility, water availability, and climate resilience, while creating livelihood opportunities.
“We need a ‘Whole of Government’ and ‘Whole of Society’ approach for Aravalli restoration,” urged Minister, stressing the importance of innovative ideas, technological interventions, and public participation. He suggested leveraging MNREGA and CAMPA funds for seedling nurseries, engaging youth and volunteers in eco-restoration, implementing the Green Credit Programme, restoring abandoned mines, and developing eco-tourism and nature parks.
The Action Plan outlines five key pillars for restoration:
Ecological Restoration focusing on natural regeneration, native species plantation, and soil and moisture conservation.
Community Participation involving local communities, particularly women and youth, in planning and implementation.
Policy and Governance strengthening regulatory frameworks and enhancing monitoring.
Sustainable Livelihoods promoting eco-tourism, agroforestry, and non-timber forest produce-based enterprises.
Research and Innovation utilizing GIS mapping, remote sensing, and restoration ecology practices.
The Minister also called for the removal of invasive species, the planting of native species and bamboo, the involvement of Eco-clubs and Eco-Task Force, the integration of Amrit Sarovars and water bodies, and the establishment of a research and monitoring vertical under institutions like BSI and ZSI.
Appreciating the efforts of the state forest departments and other stakeholders, the Minister called for joint cooperation and an integrated approach, urging annual reviews to track progress and share best practices.
