• Source:JND

Aravalli Hills Case: Amid growing concerns, protests, and criticism from environmentalists and Opposition parties over the definition of the Aravalli Hills, the Supreme Court on Monday stayed the November 20 order on the new definition. The apex court proposed setting up a panel of domain experts to examine the recommendations made by a committee of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). It also issued notices to the Centre and all states in connection with the matter.

The matter was heard by a Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justices JK Maheshwari and AG Masih. “Prior to the implementation of a report or direction of this court, a fair, impartial, independent expert opinion must be considered. Such a step is essential to provide definitive guidance," CJI Kant said.

On November 20, the Supreme Court, accepting a uniform and scientific definition of the Aravalli Range, banned the granting of new mining leases in areas within its boundaries in Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Environmentalists had however pointed out that the uniform criterion could exclude nearly 90 per cent of the ancient Aravalli range, paving the way for mining activities there.

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Definition Of Aravalli Given By Centre And Accepted By SC

The Supreme Court had accepted the recommendations of a committee of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change according to which any landform located in the Aravalli district that is 100 metres or more above the local ground level will be considered "Aravalli Hills." Two or more such hills located within a distance of 500 metres will be called the "Aravalli Range."

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Environmentalists Raise Concerns About Increased Mining In Aravalli Region

According to news agency ANI, environmentalist Neelam Ahluwalia, associated with the Aravalli Heritage People's Campaign, called the definition "completely unacceptable" and urged the Supreme Court to reverse its November 20 order and ask the Centre to repeal the new definition. She alleged that the change was made without adequate scientific study and public consultation. She said there can be no concept of "sustainable mining" in a sensitive mountain ecosystem like the Aravallis.

Environmentalists' main objection is that the altitude-based definition ignores the Aravallis' complex and ancient geomorphological structure. They argue that this will have serious implications for water security, food security, and climate balance, which are linked to the lives of millions of people. Furthermore, the government's claim that the new definition will affect only two per cent of the area is being questioned, as no concrete data has been released. The matter will be taken up next on January 21, 2026.

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