Ecology and Biodiversity

ARAVALLI HILLS PROTECTION

The Supreme Court has stayed its earlier judgment that accepted a uniform definition of the Aravalli hills based on height and cluster criteria. It took this step after concerns that the definition could reduce protection for large parts of the Aravalli range and encourage mining and construction. The Court has paused the grant or renewal of mining leases in the region without its permission and proposed setting up a high-powered expert committee to scientifically reassess the definition. The order emphasises the precautionary principle and underscores that the Aravallis must be protected as an integrated ecological system until a final decision is reached.