Aravalli Definition Row: Activists Fear Ecological Damage, Govt Says 90% Region Will Be Protected

A recent Supreme Court order revising the definition of the Aravalli hills has triggered strong opposition from environmental activists and citizens, who warn the move could open large parts of the ancient hill range to development and mining. While the revised 100-metre criterion applies to around 1,000 hills out of over 12,000 across Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat, the Centre has dismissed fears of large-scale damage. Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said over 90% of the Aravalli region would remain protected and less than 1% would be mined, adding that the definition has been standardised across states. Activists, however, argue the entire Aravalli range must be safeguarded to protect water sources, forests and air quality.