Supreme Court Restricts New Mining Leases in Aravalis, Permits Existing Operations Under Strict Regulations
In a landmark decision aimed at safeguarding the fragile Aravali ecosystem, the Supreme Court (SC) on Thursday, November 20, 2025, directed that no new mining leases be granted in the Aravali hills and ranges, while allowing existing legal mining operations to continue under strict compliance with environmental norms. The ruling emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and sustainable approach to mining in the region, balancing economic development with ecological preservation.
The decision was delivered by a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan R. Gavai. The court also mandated the preparation of a Management Plan for Sustainable Mining (MPSM) for all districts within the Aravali range, tasking the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) to formulate the plan through the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). This plan will identify areas permissible for mining, ecologically sensitive zones, and areas requiring priority for conservation and restoration. Mining will be strictly prohibited in ecologically sensitive and conservation-critical areas, or permitted only under exceptional and scientifically justified circumstances.
The Supreme Court's order encompasses the Aravali range, which spans across Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. The court's intervention was prompted by concerns over extensive illegal mining activities and inconsistent definitions of the Aravali hills across different states, which have led to regulatory loopholes and environmental degradation. The Central Empowered Committee (CEC) informed the court that these varying definitions have resulted in indiscriminate mining, threatening the ancient mountain range.
The court formally adopted the MoEF&CC Committee's operational definition of "Aravali Hills" and "Aravali Range" for mining regulation purposes. According to this definition, "Aravali Hills" refer to any landform in designated districts with a minimum 100-meter elevation from the local relief, including supporting slopes and connected landforms, while "Aravali Range" is formed when two or more such hills lie within 500 meters of each other.
The Supreme Court, however, rejected calls for a complete ban on all mining activities in the Aravali region. The court reasoned that such a prohibition could incentivize illegal extraction, leading to the rise of land and mining mafias, and increased criminal activity. Instead, the court opted to allow existing legal mines to continue operations, contingent upon strict adherence to environmental regulations.
The MPSM will incorporate a thorough analysis of cumulative environmental impacts and the ecological carrying capacity of the region. It will also include detailed post-mining restoration and rehabilitation measures. The court emphasized the importance of maintaining the continuity and integrity of the Aravali Hills and Ranges.
The Aravali range is recognized as a crucial "green barrier" that prevents the eastward expansion of the Thar Desert, safeguarding the Indo-Gangetic plains, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh from desertification. The ecosystem is rich in wildlife, flora, and fauna, and significantly influences the climate and biodiversity of North India. It houses numerous wildlife sanctuaries, tiger reserves, wetlands, and aquifers that recharge vital river systems. The court also acknowledged India's commitment to the United Nations Convention on Combat Desertification. The Centre has also launched the "Aravali Green Wall Project" to restore the area.
The Supreme Court's directive underscores the urgent need for a balanced approach that protects the Aravali ecosystem while allowing for sustainable mining practices. The preparation and implementation of the MPSM will be crucial in ensuring the long-term ecological security of the region.
