Short Description
The Supreme Court’s recent suo motu cognisance of the Aravali mining controversy underscores a pivotal moment in India’s environmental and mining policies, as concerns about defining the Aravali Range mount.
Read Time
Approximately 3 minutes.
Main Article
The Supreme Court of India has initiated suo motu proceedings regarding the contentious issue of the Aravali Range’s definition, a critical factor in ongoing debates about mining and environmental conservation. This judicial attention arose amid concerns that the current regulatory frameworks could undermine the ecological integrity of one of India’s oldest mountain systems. A three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, will delve into these matters on an upcoming Monday, signaling a robust response to the heated discussions among environmentalists and civil society.
At the heart of the controversy is a recently adopted 100-meter height-based definition of the Aravali hills, which has faced significant backlash. Critics argue that this measure could dramatically reduce the officially recognized area of the Aravali range, thereby exposing vast regions to potential mining activities. Such a shift would not only diminish the range’s ecological status but also pose threats to biodiversity. In response, the Union Ministry of Environment has taken steps to mitigate these concerns by expanding areas where mining will be prohibited. This initiative involves collaborating with the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to identify additional landforms where mining activities should be restricted, thereby preserving local ecology and topography.
Currently, only about 0.2 percent of the Aravali’s total area is deemed eligible for mining. With the ministry’s new directive, it is anticipated that this percentage will decrease even further, aiming to safeguard the region’s environmental health. States within the Aravali range—including Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat—have been urged to halt any new mining leases. This moratorium will remain until a comprehensive Management Plan for Sustainable Mining (MPSM) is established, ensuring that environmental norms are strictly adhered to.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s fresh scrutiny regarding the Aravali Range has significant implications for mining regulation and environmental protection in India. The ongoing discussions reflect the balance that must be struck between economic development and ecological sustainability. As the issue unfolds, stakeholders from both industry and environmental advocacy are closely watching, anticipating how these legal proceedings will shape the future of mining in one of India’s crucial mountain ecosystems.
Short Summary
The Supreme Court’s action on the Aravali mining issue raises essential questions about the balance between environmental conservation and economic development. The impending discussions promise to shape India’s mining policies significantly, with increased restrictions likely to follow. This situation underscores the urgent need for sustainable management practices in regions rich in biodiversity.
