Congress Criticizes PM Modi Over Aravalli Redefinition, Highlights Gap Between Global Rhetoric and Local Action

New Delhi: The Congress party on Thursday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over environmental concerns related to the Aravalli mountain range. Party leader and former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh criticized what he described as a disconnect between Modi’s global statements on climate and environmental issues and his administration’s local-level actions.

Redefinition of Aravalli Range Raises Alarm
Ramesh expressed concerns over the new definition of the Aravalli range, claiming that over 90% of it would not be protected under the revised guidelines. He warned that the new policy could open up large areas of the already fragile ecosystem to mining, real estate, and other commercial activities, further damaging the environment.

Posting on social media platform ‘X’, Ramesh called the government’s redefinition “dangerous and destructive,” noting that official data from the Forest Survey of India (FSI) shows that only 8.7% of Aravalli hills are taller than 100 meters. He emphasized that all Aravalli hills, regardless of height, should be preserved to maintain ecological balance.

Gap Between Global Statements and Domestic Policy
Ramesh argued that this move exemplifies the Modi government’s undermining of environmental protection, citing relaxed pollution standards, weakening of forest and environmental laws, and diminishing authority of the National Green Tribunal and other environmental institutions.

Directive to Ban New Mining Leases
In response to environmental concerns, the central government recently instructed states to impose a complete ban on granting new mining leases in the Aravalli region. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has directed the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to identify additional zones for conservation across the entire Aravalli range.

Ramesh concluded that the discrepancy between global commitments and local implementation threatens ecological sustainability and undermines the Prime Minister’s environmental credibility.