Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has constituted a five-member high-powered committee to arrive at a uniform scientific definition of the ecologically sensitive Aravalli range, directing the panel to submit a comprehensive report by August 31. The order was passed on May 25 by a bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant.
Who Is on the Committee
The panel will be chaired by Kanchan Devi, Director General of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). Other members include Dr Subhash Ashutosh, former Director General of the Forest Survey of India; Dr Rajendra Kumar Sharma, former Director of the Geological Survey of India; Brij Mohan Singh Rathore, former Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Environment; and Professor Ashok K Bhatnagar, former head of the Botany Department at Delhi University. The Ministry of Environment will nominate a Director-level officer as member secretary.
Why the Committee Was Formed
The court stressed that any future action concerning the Aravallis must be scientifically sound and aligned with environmental protection and sustainable development principles. The committee has been asked to engage with all stakeholders including the governments of Delhi, Rajasthan, and Haryana, environmental groups, mining lease holders, farmers, and local communities. Mining activities across the entire Aravalli region remain stayed pending the committee’s report. The next hearing is scheduled for September 7.
Background of the Dispute
The court had adopted a definition in November 2025 stating only landforms rising 100 metres or more above local terrain qualify as Aravalli, prompting warnings from environmentalists that up to 90 percent of the range could lose protection. The court stayed that order in December 2025 citing critical ambiguities, leading to the formation of this committee.
