The Aravalli Landscape: Nature’s Ancient Shield and the Lifeline of Northwestern India
Posted on November 3, 2026
The Aravalli Range, one of the oldest mountain systems on Earth, is much more than a chain of hills. Stretching across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi, it plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance in northwestern India.
Its forests, hills, valleys and water bodies support rich biodiversity, regulate local climate, facilitate groundwater recharge and help prevent land degradation and desertification. The Aravalli also provides important habitats and wildlife corridors while sustaining the livelihoods of surrounding communities.
However, increasing mining activities, deforestation, urbanisation and land-use changes are putting this fragile ecosystem under serious pressure. Protecting this ancient mountain system requires scientific monitoring, ecological restoration and sustainable land management.
Saving the Aravalli is not just about conserving mountains; it is about protecting biodiversity, water security, climate resilience and the future of millions of people in northwestern India.
Author & Photograph Credit: Basant Bijarniya, PhD Scholar, Department of Environmental Science, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Kishangarh, Rajasthan, India.
