The Supreme Court of India has taken a stern stance against illegal mining in the Aravalli Hills, underlining the irreversible environmental consequences of such activities. On January 21, 2026, a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi directed the constitution of an expert committee of environmentalists and scientists to conduct a comprehensive and holistic study of mining and related activities across the Aravalli range. This decision underscores the apex court’s commitment to protecting India’s ecological heritage and ensuring sustainable development.

The expert panel will function under the supervision and direction of the Supreme Court, as the bench emphasized that any illegal mining in the region can have far-reaching and serious consequences. The court extended its earlier order from November 20, 2025, which had kept in abeyance its directions regarding a uniform definition of Aravalli Hills and ranges, citing the need to resolve critical ambiguities in the definition, such as whether the criteria of 100-metre elevation and 500-metre separation between hills could exempt significant portions of the range from environmental protection.

During the hearing, the bench was informed that illegal mining continues in scattered locations across the Aravallis. The Rajasthan government, represented by Additional Solicitor General K M Nataraj, provided assurance that unauthorised mining would not take place, addressing the court’s concerns. The Supreme Court reiterated that preventing illegal extraction is critical to preserving the ecological balance of the region, which spans Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.

The ongoing dispute over the Aravalli definition emerged after the Supreme Court’s November 20 order that sought to impose a uniform definition of the hills and ranges. Experts highlighted ambiguities in the original criteria, which could inadvertently reduce the environmental safeguards in key stretches of the Aravalli ecosystem. As a result, the Supreme Court temporarily stayed these directions on December 29, 2025, until further clarity is obtained from the expert panel.

Illegal mining in the Aravalli region poses serious risks, including loss of forest cover, soil erosion, habitat destruction, and disruption of water resources. The Supreme Court’s action reflects its broader commitment to environmental governance and demonstrates judicial oversight in ensuring compliance with ecological norms. By involving domain experts, the apex court aims to balance developmental pressures with sustainable environmental management, ensuring that mining and construction activities do not compromise the Aravalli’s fragile ecosystem.

The expert committee will examine multiple aspects, including the scope of illegal mining, impact on local biodiversity, hydrology, and soil stability, as well as regulatory compliance. The court has asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati and amicus curiae K Parameshwar to propose the list of suitable environmentalists and scientists within four weeks. This initiative ensures that the panel will be equipped with the knowledge and experience necessary to make informed recommendations to the Supreme Court.

The Aravalli Hills, spanning Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, are among India’s most significant ecological zones, providing critical forest cover, groundwater recharge, and biodiversity conservation. The Supreme Court’s intervention sends a strong message that environmental protection cannot be compromised, and any form of illegal extraction will attract strict judicial scrutiny.

In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s decision to constitute an expert committee and extend its previous orders is a crucial step in safeguarding the Aravalli ecosystem. By ensuring that no unauthorised mining occurs and resolving ambiguities regarding the definition of the hills and ranges, the apex court reinforces India’s commitment to environmental conservation, sustainable development, and long-term ecological balance. This initiative highlights the critical role of judicial oversight in preventing irreversible damage to one of the country’s most vital natural resources.

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