Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav on Aravalli: Mining Lease is Only 0.19% of Total Area

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupendra Yadav, addresses critical environmental issues, focusing on Delhi-NCR's air pollution and the Aravalli mining controversy. Responding to concerns about severe AQI levels, Yadav states, 'If you look at the AQI average since 2016, we have improved. But we should have a collective response.' He details the government's strategy, including the role of the CAQM authority, transitioning to clean fuel, and managing vehicular and industrial pollution. Regarding the Aravallis, Yadav clarifies that mining is not permitted in protected areas like tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. He asserts that mining leases constitute only 0.19% of the total area and that the government is committed to a scientific management plan and making the Aravallis a 'green wall'.