The Indian Prime Minister will launch the Aravalli Green Wall project on World Environment Day

Regarding the Aravalli Green Wall Initiative:

What does it mean?

A centrally organized reforestation and landscape restoration initiative directed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), spanning the 700-km Aravalli range.

Goals:

• Address land degradation and desertification in 29 districts.
• Reestablish ecological equilibrium by enhancing vegetation and safeguarding biodiversity.
• Enhance carbon capture in line with India’s climate obligations (NDC-UNFCCC).
• Restore surface water bodies and encourage community involvement.

Main Attributes:

29 districts in Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Delhi designated for planting.

1,000 nurseries will be established with indigenous species utilizing resources from CAMPA, MNREGA, and state programs.

Concentrate on agroforestry, enhancing pastures, and restoring lakes and ponds.

Collaboration with ongoing initiatives such as 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam'.

Advocacy for eco-tourism: safaris, hiking, and nature reserves to engage local populations.

Aim to finish Phase I by 2027 and unveil the action plan at COP16 of UNCCD in Riyadh.

Concerning the Aravalli Range:

Covered States:

Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat (covering more than 670 km).

Geographical and Ecological Importance:

A mountain range of ancient folds (created during the Proterozoic Era).

Functions as a natural shield against the encroachment of the Thar Desert into NCR.

Tallest summit: Guru Shikhar at Mount Abu, Rajasthan (1,722 meters).

Origins of major rivers: Banas, Sahibi (affluents of Yamuna), and Luni (empties into Rann of Kutch).

Consisting of old rocks and abundant in minerals such as copper, zinc, and marble.

Separated into two sections:

• Sirohi–Sambhar range (includes Guru Shikhar).
• Sambhar–Khetri range (intermittent hills).