Prelims : Current events of national and international importance | Environment
Why in News?
On World Environment Day (June 5 ) this year, the Union government is set to relaunch the Aravalli Green Wall Project.
The original phase of the Aravalli Green Wall was launched in 2023, covering a 5-kilometre buffer zone around the range.
The upcoming phase broadens the scope significantly, incorporating new initiatives and partnerships with local communities.
This corridor will cover the 29 districts in the Aravalli range, including those in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi.
Aim - To create a continuous green belt from Delhi to Gujarat, acting as a natural barrier against desertification and aiding in groundwater recharge across the Indo-Gangetic plains.
Objectives - The plan focuses on
Restoring degraded forest lands,
Improving water retention through soil and moisture conservation, and
Encouraging the planting of indigenous species.
One thousand permanent nurseries will be set up to revive India's oldest mountain range.
Funding - Through the already existing and functioning schemes of MNREGA, Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) and Green India Mission.
Tools - Advanced tools like satellite mapping and remote sensing will be used to monitor progress and ensure transparency.
Significance -The range is home to 22 wildlife sanctuaries and 4 tiger reserves - Ranthambore, Sariska, Ramgarh-Vishdhari, and Mukunda Hills.
It also houses the bird sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park and nearly 50 historic forts.
The terrain varies from rolling ridges to steep hillocks, with the highest elevation being Guru Shikhar in Mount Abu, Rajasthan,.
Several rivers, including the Chambal and Luni, originate in these hills, which are also rich in minerals and diverse flora and fauna.
'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign -Integrated with existing program like 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign.
It encourages people to plant a tree as a symbol of love, respect, and honour for their mothers, while also pledging to protect trees and the Earth.
The initiative aims to combat land degradation and restore degraded land areas.
The need of the hour -Aravalli range has faced severe environmental degradation in recent decades.
