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.

Reference

NDTV | 'Aravalli Green Wall' Project