Aravalli Range

Aravalli Range is one of Earth’s oldest mountain systems, vital for ecology, water security, biodiversity, and desert-control in western India.

Syllabus: Indian Geography (UPSC Prelims)

One of the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world, dating back over 2.5 billion years (Proterozoic).
Extends about 700–800 km from Delhi–Haryana through Rajasthan to Gujarat.
Forms part of the Aravalli–Delhi Orogenic Belt and the Indian Shield.
Highest peak: Guru Shikhar¹ (1,722 m), Mount Abu region, Rajasthan.

Acts as a barrier preventing desertification, slowing the eastward spread of the Thar Desert.
Recognised as an eco-sensitive zone with rich biodiversity, including habitats for leopards, hyenas, jackals, caracal, and the Indian wolf.
Hosts protected areas like Sariska Tiger Reserve, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, and Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary.
Important wildlife corridors:
- Northern Aravalli Leopard Corridor (Delhi–Haryana belt)
- Southern Aravalli Leopard Corridor
- Great Green Wall of India concept zone

Rich in marble, granite, mica, and metallic ores such as copper, zinc, and lead.

Diverse vegetation from dry deciduous to scrub forests.
WII surveys record species like leopards, golden jackals, nilgai, civets, porcupines, and peafowl.
Increasing need for wildlife corridor protection due to habitat fragmentation.

Contains ancient forts, settlements, and archaeological sites.
Historically influenced regional settlement patterns, trade routes, and defence structures.

Deforestation, overgrazing, and illegal mining causing habitat degradation.
Groundwater depletion and soil erosion increasing due to unregulated extraction.
Urbanisation pressure around Delhi–NCR and parts of Rajasthan and Haryana.
Pollution affecting water bodies and forest patches.

Supreme Court and NGT have issued major directives restricting mining and construction in Aravalli.
MoEF&CC notified several protected zones for conservation.
Central Empowered Committee (CEC) monitors violations.
Conservation efforts include afforestation, wildlife corridor protection, and illegal construction removal.