The Spine of Haryana: Ecological and Historical Significance of Aravalli Hills

Natural resources are crucial for the development of civilizations; men-nature relationship is the axis of it and the Aravalli hills in India hold significant importance as the oldest mountain range on earth. Spanning across four states, they play a crucial role in shaping the climate and biodiversity of the region. Not only do they act as a watershed between the Indus and Ganga basins, but their forested patches also serve as a vital defence against air pollution and soil erosion. Recognizing their ecological value, the Ministry of Environment and Forest of India has implemented regulations to protect the Aravalli Range from activities causing environmental degradation. However, despite these efforts, the range faces threats such as deforestation, land degradation, encroachments, developmental activities, and mining, leading to adverse consequences like desertification, dust storms, loss of biodiversity, and air pollution. It is imperative to address these challenges to safeguard the ecological balance and natural heritage of the Aravalli hills. The aim of this present paper is to highlight the ecological as well as other importance of Aravalli hills in Haryana.