Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has firmly rejected claims of relaxed mining rules in the Aravalli range. He clarified that the government has not granted any concessions and will not do so in the future.
Speaking after the Sundarban meeting, Yadav said confusion and misinformation were being deliberately spread. He stressed that environmental protection remains the government’s top priority. The Aravalli mountain range stretches across Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat, covering 39 districts.
Yadav explained that legal proceedings related to Aravalli protection have continued since 1985. These cases focus on enforcing strict mining controls. The Supreme Court has directed all four states to adopt a uniform definition of the Aravalli range. This step prevents misuse of differing interpretations.
Addressing the 100-metre safety zone, Yadav dismissed false claims about excavation permissions. He said the protected zone starts from the base of the hill. No mining or construction will be allowed within this area.
He also noted that land between two hills, even if separated by 500 metres, will remain protected. With this definition, more than 90 percent of the Aravalli region now falls under protection.
Yadav said the government supports development but will not compromise environmental balance. He added that these measures will curb illegal mining and preserve natural heritage.
