Understanding the Aravalli Controversy
The Aravalli Hills — one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges stretching across Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat — have become the centre of a growing environmental, political, and legal debate in India. At issue is a new uniform definition accepted by the Supreme Court of India, following a government-led expert panel recommendation aimed at clarifying which landforms qualify as part of the ecologically sensitive Aravalli range.
Supporters of the new definition say it creates clarity, helps curb illegal mining, and standardises protection across state borders. Critics fear that the change could strip protection from large swathes of the Aravalli system, opening them up to mining, construction, and other commercial exploitation. (Hindustan Times)
What Changed – New Definition and Its Impacts
In November 2025, the Supreme Court accepted a uniform definition for the Aravalli Hills and Ranges proposed by a committee under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Under this criterion:
- An “Aravalli Hill” must be a landform with at least 100 m elevation above local relief;
- An “Aravalli Range” consists of two or more such hills within 500 m of each other;
- A buffer of 100 m around identified hill systems must be maintained, with mining and destructive activities restricted within this zone. (Economic Times)
The intention, according to the government, is to provide uniform protection standards across four states, countering differing local definitions that previously allowed illegal mining and encroachments. (Economic Times)
Also read: Save Aravalli Hills: Why India’s Oldest Mountain Range Needs Urgent Protection
Government’s Position and Official Response
Protection and Clarification from the Centre
The Union Environment Ministry, led by Minister Bhupender Yadav, has repeatedly denied claims that the new definition weakens environmental protections. Key points from the government’s stance include:
- Over 90% of the Aravalli region will continue to be under full protection, with only 0.19% of the total area open to regulated mining under strict conditions. (Economic Times)
- The definition is applicable only for mining purposes and was developed to prevent loopholes exploited by illegal miners operating in differences between state definitions. (Economic Times)
- The Supreme Court has also frozen new mining leases in the region until a comprehensive scientific management plan is ready. (Economic Times)
- Mr. Yadav has accused the opposition of spreading misinformation and insists the government is fully committed to the “Green Aravalli” mission and ecological preservation. (Onmanorama)
Centre’s Legal and Scientific Justification
Officials argue that prior to the intervention, conflicting state definitions allowed irregular mining on the hills’ fringes, undermining enforcement and environmental protection. A uniform, elevation-based definition, they contend, empowers authorities to act decisively against unauthorized extraction and restore ecological balance. (The Week)
Opposition, Protests, and Criticism
Environmental and Political Opposition
Activists, environmentalists, and political leaders warn that the new definition could inadvertently exclude ecologically important hillocks and low-lying ridges that — though below the 100 m threshold — perform vital functions such as groundwater recharge, dust blocking, and habitat connectivity. (Hindustan Times)
The opposition parties, including members of the Congress and others, have strongly criticised the government’s narrative, calling the policy a disguised attempt to facilitate mining interests. (Times of India)
Local and Regional Voices
- Large demonstrations have taken place in Udaipur, with citizens and opposition figures demanding the court reconsider its decision. (Times of India)
- In Gurugram and Haryana, activists held protests expressing concern about soil degradation, water stress, and air pollution risks. (Business Standard)
- Social media movements such as #SaveAravalli highlight anxiety about future ecological stability across northern India. (Mathrubhumi)
Broader Environmental Significance
The Aravalli range is not just a geological landmark. Its functions span ecological, hydrological, and climatic roles:
- Slowing west-to-east desertification from the Thar Desert;
- Acting as a natural green boundary for Delhi-NCR, influencing air quality and dust control;
- Serving as a major groundwater recharge zone for rivers and aquifers across several states. (Newsgram)
What Happens Next?
The debate shows no signs of fading. Legal challenges — including petitions for review of the Supreme Court’s acceptance of the new definition — are pending. Civil society groups continue public awareness campaigns, while the government seeks to finalise its sustainable mining and conservation management plan.
Disclaimer: This article is based on current media reports and reflects information available as of late December 2025. Positions and developments may evolve. Sources are hyperlinked throughout the article for reference and transparency.
Sources & Further Reading
- Explained: New Aravalli benchmark and its effects — Indian Express
- Centre rejects mining push charge — NDTV
- Agitation intensifies in Rajasthan — New Indian Express
- Recent protests in Udaipur — Times of India
Author: Team RA News