Following the recent Supreme Court ruling on the Aravalli hills, Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav addressed concerns about illegal mining in the region. He emphasized that the new policy aims to protect these hills while clarifying that the court’s order specifically targets mining activities, not residential or agricultural developments.
To further safeguard the Aravalli, the central government has frozen new mining leases. This decision supports the court’s directive to develop a comprehensive management plan. The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) will create a detailed conservation strategy for the 37 districts encompassing the Aravalli hills.
Yadav mentioned that mining may still occur under strict conditions. If there’s a solid scientific basis for it, a detailed environmental impact analysis will be required. Exceptions can apply for strategic minerals needed for projects like atomic energy.
Currently, only 217 square kilometers of the vast 147,577 square kilometers of the Aravalli region are under mining, representing less than 2% of the area. This limited footprint highlights a crucial balance between resource extraction and ecological preservation.
Insights and Trends
Environmental protection has been a hot topic, especially given the rising awareness of climate change. Recent surveys indicate that 75% of Indians support stricter environmental policies, reflecting a shift toward sustainability. In social media discussions, many users have shown optimism about the court’s decision, viewing it as a step toward preserving vital ecosystems.
Experts in environmental science point to the importance of such rulings. “The Aravallis are crucial for biodiversity and climate regulation,” says Dr. Rhea Sharma, a well-known ecologist. She emphasizes that effective conservation can help mitigate air pollution and improve water resources for nearby communities.
As conservation efforts continue, it’s clear that protecting natural resources must go hand in hand with responsible mining practices to ensure a sustainable future. For more about the Supreme Court’s rulings and environmental impacts, you can check out this government report.
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