In recent weeks, a claim that 90% of the Aravalli region had been granted a relaxation in forest‑clearance rules sparked heated debate across media and civil‑society circles. The allegation, which appeared on several online portals, suggested that the central government had watered down environmental safeguards for one of India’s most fragile mountain ranges. However, officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change categorically dismissed the story as unfounded, emphasizing that no such policy amendment exists. This article unpacks the origins of the rumor, examines the legal framework governing the Aravalli ecosystem, and analyses the reactions of stakeholders ranging from environmental NGOs to local communities.
Background of the Aravalli ecosystem
The Aravalli hills stretch across six states, forming a critical green lung for the northern Indian subcontinent. According to the latest Forest Survey of India report (2025), the region retains roughly 28% of its original forest cover, translating to about 12,500 square kilometres of protected land. The range is home to endemic flora, wildlife corridors, and serves as a natural barrier against desertification. Its ecological significance has prompted multiple conservation designations, including several wildlife sanctuaries and a UNESCO Global Geopark.
The contested relaxation claim
On December 21, 2025, a headline circulated that claimed “90% of Aravalli region” had been granted a relaxation in forest‑clearance norms. The story cited unnamed “government sources” and suggested that the change would enable large‑scale mining and infrastructure projects. No official gazette or circular corroborated the assertion, and the language of the alleged amendment conflicted with the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, which requires parliamentary approval for any deviation.
Government response and legal implications
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change issued an immediate press statement refuting the claim. It clarified that:
- No amendment or notification has been released to relax forest‑clearance criteria for the Aravalli region.
- All existing clearances remain subject to the stringent provisions of the Forest Conservation Act and the National Green Tribunal’s precedents.
- Any project seeking forest land must still undergo the mandatory Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and obtain public hearing approvals.
These points reinforce the legal safeguard that any deviation would trigger judicial review, potentially leading to stay orders under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
Stakeholder reactions and on‑ground impact
Environmental NGOs, including the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and WWF‑India, quickly mobilised to counter misinformation. A joint statement highlighted the danger of “false narratives” eroding public trust in genuine conservation efforts. Meanwhile, local community leaders in Rajasthan and Haryana expressed relief, noting that the rumor had caused anxiety among farmers fearing land‑use changes. The incident also prompted a surge in social‑media fact‑checking, with platforms like Alt News publishing debunking articles.
Future outlook and policy recommendations
While the current claim has been debunked, the episode underscores the need for greater transparency in environmental governance. Experts recommend:
- Regular public dashboards that list all active forest‑clearance applications and their status.
- Strengthening the role of State Forest Departments in monitoring on‑ground compliance.
- Enhanced collaboration with independent research institutes to publish real‑time ecological data.
Such measures could mitigate misinformation and reinforce accountability.
Key forest cover statistics for the Aravalli region (as of Dec 2025)
| State | Forest area (km²) | Percentage of original cover |
|---|---|---|
| Rajasthan | 5,800 | 30% |
| Haryana | 1,200 | 25% |
| Delhi | 150 | 20% |
| Uttar Pradesh | 3,200 | 22% |
| Gujarat | 2,150 | 28% |
In conclusion, the alleged “90% relaxation” in the Aravalli region was a baseless rumor that the government promptly dispelled. The incident highlights the fragility of public perception regarding environmental policies and the importance of clear, accessible communication from authorities. By bolstering transparency and fostering collaborative monitoring, stakeholders can ensure that the Aravalli hills remain protected against genuine threats, preserving their ecological and cultural legacy for future generations.
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