Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Tuesday gave a firm assurance that there would be no tampering with the Aravalli mountain range under his government, asserting that environmental protection will not be compromised in the name of development.

Addressing the NDTV Rajasthan Conclave titled ‘Rising Rajasthan: Development with Heritage’ in Mandawa, Jhunjhunu district, the Chief Minister presented a detailed account of the state government’s two-year tenure and reiterated that balancing development with heritage conservation remains a core priority.

According to an NDTV press release, Sharma described the Aravallis as the lifeline of Rajasthan, stating that the ancient mountain range is central to the state’s ecology and water balance. He questioned the changes made to the definition of the Aravallis in 2002 and 2009 and sought clarity on the intent behind those decisions. The Chief Minister underlined that his government has adopted a firm stance against illegal mining and other unlawful activities, making it clear that the Aravallis would not be allowed to suffer damage under any circumstances.

Taking a strong stand on paper leak cases, Sharma alleged that such incidents during previous governments occurred with political patronage. He claimed that under the Congress regime, paper leaks became an organised mafia that shattered the aspirations of poor and hardworking youth. Reiterating his government’s zero-tolerance policy, he said over 200 examinations have been conducted during the current tenure without a single leak, and more than 300 accused have been sent to jail, reflecting a commitment to transparency and accountability.

Speaking from the cultural heartland of Shekhawati, the Chief Minister said Rajasthan is witnessing a new phase where development and heritage go hand in hand. He maintained that law and order in the state is strong, action against criminals is uncompromising, and the government remains sensitive to public concerns while working actively to resolve them.

On social reforms, Sharma highlighted the government’s strict measures against child marriage, noting a significant decline in such cases due to sustained administrative action and public awareness. He said the practice is now close to being eradicated in many regions of the state.

Addressing Rajasthan’s long-standing water scarcity, Sharma termed water management as the biggest challenge for sustainable development. He informed that work worth Rs 26,000 crore under the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project has already begun, which is expected to provide lasting solutions for drinking water and irrigation. He also said efforts to bring Yamuna water to the Shekhawati region have been expedited, with the detailed project report currently under preparation.

From the conclave stage, and in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, the Chief Minister also launched Rajasthan’s new Film Tourism Policy. He said the state’s forts, havelis and cultural heritage are increasingly attracting global filmmakers, and film tourism would generate employment opportunities for local youth. He added that over 660 havelis in the Shekhawati region have already been conserved.

The Chief Minister further directed officials to establish a Heritage Library to preserve Rajasthan’s cultural legacy, emphasising that the havelis of Shekhawati are living symbols of history and shared cultural responsibility.

Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari said the state government is working with a long-term vision for heritage conservation. She noted that while most havelis are privately owned, efforts are being made through awareness and administrative support to preserve their original character. She also revealed that preparations are underway to seek UNESCO World Heritage status for Rajasthan’s havelis, with over 600 already identified.

The conclave also featured addresses by Energy Minister Hiralal Nagar, Social Justice Minister Avinash Gehlot and Food Minister Sumit Godara, who highlighted sector-wise achievements of the government. In the opening session, Urban Development Minister Jhabar Singh Kharra reiterated that cabinet expansion is the Chief Minister’s prerogative and reaffirmed that the Aravalli range would remain protected under the present administration.