Facing protests and criticism over a new uniform definition of the Aravalli hills, which was accepted by the Supreme Court based on recommendations of a Centre-led panel, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said Sunday that it would not lead to any relaxation for mining in the range. Speaking to reporters after a meeting of the National Tiger Conservation Authority in the Sunderbans, Yadav said, “The total Aravalli range is 1.47 lakh square km and only 2 per cent can be mined and that too only after certain studies. The Supreme Court has directed that a sustainable mining plan should be prepared like it has been done in Saranda, Jharkhand, and permissions will be granted (for mining) only after that. On Saturday, a silent demonstration was held outside the official residence of Haryana Environment Minister Rao Narbir Singh. Story continues below this adThe Supreme Court directed the Union Environment Ministry to prepare a management plan for sustainable mining for the entire Aravallis before granting new mining leases.

Source: Indian Express December 22, 2025 13:13 UTC