Central Environment Minister Clarifies New Definition of Aravalli Hills for Mining Purposes Only

Clarification on Aravalli Hills Definition

On Monday, Bhupender Yadav, the Union Environment Minister, stated that the newly defined boundaries of the Aravalli Hills are applicable solely for mining activities. He emphasized that only 277.89 square kilometers, which is approximately 0.19 percent of the total area, is designated for mining, and no new mining leases will be issued until a comprehensive scientific study is completed. During a press conference aimed at addressing concerns regarding the revised definition, Yadav reiterated the Modi government's commitment to the Green Aravalli Mission, dismissing fears of significant ecological damage as unfounded.

Mining Restrictions and Political Reactions

Yadav clarified that this definition related to the Aravalli Hills is exclusively for mining purposes and will only be utilized in that context. Out of the total 143,577 square kilometers of the Aravalli region, only 277.89 square kilometers is permitted for mining. However, he refrained from commenting on the timeline of the report being prepared by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), which is essential before considering any new mining leases, citing that the matter is currently in court. He stated, "I cannot comment on the timeline at this moment."

These remarks from Yadav come amid intense political criticism following the Supreme Court's acceptance of the central government's definition of the Aravalli range and approval of sustainable mining recommendations. The opposition claims that this move will benefit mining interests, a point that the minister has categorically denied. He asserted that mining activities in the Aravalli range will be allowed only in a very limited area, emphasizing that the range still enjoys robust ecological protection. Furthermore, he noted that the Supreme Court has praised the government's Green Aravalli initiative.

Ministry's Official Statement

The Union Environment Ministry has also issued a detailed clarification stating that no new mining leases will be granted until extensive studies are conducted, in accordance with the Supreme Court's order dated November 20. The Supreme Court has directed the Environment Ministry to prepare a sustainable mining plan (MPSM) for the entire Aravalli range before issuing any new leases.