ARAVALLI
Why the Aravalli Region Is Environmentally Important
The Aravalli region is environmentally important because it acts as a natural ecological shield for northern and western India. As one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, the Aravalli hills play a crucial role in preventing the spread of the Thar Desert towards fertile regions of Haryana, Delhi-NCR, and western Uttar Pradesh. The forests and rocky terrain of the Aravalli help in groundwater recharge by allowing rainwater to percolate into the soil, which supports rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers in nearby areas. This region also functions as a natural air purifier, reducing dust storms and air pollution, especially for densely populated urban centres like Delhi-NCR. Moreover, the Aravalli ecosystem supports rich biodiversity, including forests, wildlife, and local plant species that maintain ecological balance. Any damage to the Aravalli region through deforestation, mining, or improper waste disposal directly impacts climate stability, water availability, soil fertility, and public health, making its conservation essential for sustainable development and environmental protection.
Supreme Court & New Aravalli Definition
Any landform that rises 100 metres or more above the surrounding local relief nearby ground level is called Aravalli hill and A cluster of such hills located within 500 metres of each other is treated as part of the Aravalli Range
Effect of this judgement
Exclusion of Smaller Hills
Hills that rise less than 100 metres above local relief are excluded from the legal definition of the Aravalli. Many such smaller hills are still ecologically important for water recharge and biodiversity.
Increased Development Pressure
Areas not meeting the 100-metre criterion may be opened to construction, mining, and industrial activities. This can lead to deforestation and habitat loss.
Risk of Higher Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR
The Aravalli hills act as a natural barrier against dust and desert winds. Reduced protection may result in more dust storms and air pollution in nearby urban areas.
Negative Impact on Groundwater
Even small hills contribute to rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge. Their degradation can worsen water scarcity.
Fragmentation of the Aravalli Ecosystem
The 500-metre clustering rule may exclude isolated or scattered hill formations. This can break the ecological continuity of the Aravalli range.
Environmental and Political Protests
On December 23, 2025, schoolchildren in Udaipur participated in a rally at Fatehsagar Lake, chanting "Save Aravali" slogans, reflecting ongoing public opposition to mining activities in the region. Similar protests were reported in Sikar, where demonstrators clashed with police at the district collectorate, highlighting the widespread resistance to mining approvals
Earlier Supreme Court Judgments on Aravalli (Mining & Protection)
The Supreme Court of India, through a series of earlier judgments (much before the new Aravalli definition), played a key role in protecting the Aravalli Hills from mining and environmental degradation. These judgments focused mainly on stopping illegal mining, quarrying, and stone-crushing activities.
Ban on Mining in Forest Areas
The Supreme Court ordered that mining activities in forest areas of the Aravalli range must be stopped unless proper forest and environmental clearances were obtained. Mining without approval was declared illegal.
Environmental Clearance Made Mandatory
The Court held that all mining operations, whether old or new, require environmental clearance under environmental laws. Mining without Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was prohibited.
Control Over Illegal Mining and Stone Crushers
The Court took strict action against illegal mining and stone-crushing units, especially in Haryana and Rajasthan, as these activities caused severe air pollution and ecological damage.
Role of Central Empowered Committee (CEC)
The Supreme Court appointed the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to monitor mining activities, identify violations, and recommend corrective measures for Aravalli protection.