The Supreme Court of India has constituted a high-powered expert committee to redefine the boundaries of the Aravalli hills, a move aimed at addressing long-standing ecological concerns and regulatory ambiguities. The committee, led by Kanchan Devi, Director General of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), has been tasked with submitting its report by August 31, 2026.
Committee Formation and Mandate
The Supreme Court bench, while hearing a case related to the protection of the Aravalli range, highlighted the need for a scientific and geological reassessment of what constitutes a hill in the region. The committee will review the October 2025 report from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), which had drawn criticism for leaving gaps in ecological protection and potential mining loopholes. The panel's primary objective is to resolve ambiguities in the definition of hills, ensuring that ecological safeguards are robust and enforceable.
Key Ecological Questions to Address
The expert panel will examine whether the current 500-metre elevation threshold for hill protection is scientifically valid. Additionally, it will assess whether lower-elevation hills, which also host significant biodiversity and ecological functions, require similar safeguards. The committee's work is expected to clarify regulatory oversight and prevent exploitation of undefined areas.
Regulatory Gaps and Statistical Context
The court identified flaws in existing mechanisms, noting that out of 12,081 hills surveyed in Rajasthan, only 1,048 met the elevation criterion. This disparity underscores the need for a fresh investigation to ensure that all ecologically sensitive areas receive appropriate protection. The committee's findings will likely influence mining regulations, land use policies, and conservation strategies across the Aravalli landscape.
The Supreme Court's intervention comes amid growing concerns over rapid urbanization and mining activities threatening the Aravalli ecosystem. The panel's report, due by August 2026, is expected to provide a comprehensive framework for sustainable development and ecological preservation in the region.
