SC Accepts 100-Meter Aravalli Definition Amidst Panel Opposition

India's Supreme Court has accepted the government's 100-meter definition for the Aravalli Hills, despite strong opposition from its own Central Empowered Committee (CEC) and amicus curiae. Critics warn this redefinition could shrink protected areas, potentially increasing vulnerability to mining and environmental degradation. The decision was made on November 20.

• Supreme Court adopted government's 100-meter Aravalli definition on November 20.
• CEC and amicus curiae explicitly opposed the 100-meter definition.
• Expert panel feared loss of Aravalli's geographical integrity and increased mining.
• Internal FSI assessment indicated 91% of hills could lose protection.
• The earlier FSI definition used a 3-degree slope criterion.
• Decision impacts environmental conservation and mining regulations across four states.

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