High-Powered Committee to Address Ecological and Environmental Concerns; Report Due by August 2026
In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has directed the establishment of a High-Powered Expert Committee to evaluate critical ecological, environmental, and regulatory issues concerning the definition and demarcation of the Aravalli Hills and Ranges. This decision comes as part of the Court's Suo Motu Writ Petition (Civil) No. 10 of 2025, aiming to address ambiguities and systemic vulnerabilities in the current understanding and protection of this ancient mountain range.
The bench, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, emphasized the necessity of an independent and thorough examination by domain experts. The Court's directive follows concerns over the restrictive definition of the Aravalli Hills, potentially leading to unregulated activities in ecologically sensitive areas.
The Committee, to be chaired by the Director General of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education, includes notable members like Dr. Subhash Ashutosh, Dr. Rajendra Kumar Sharma, Mr. Brij Mohan Singh Rathore, and Prof. Ashok K. Bhatnagar. Special invitees include Professor Jagdish Krishnaswamy and Professor (Dr.) Laxmikant Sharma, with the flexibility to include additional experts as needed.
Key issues for the Committee's assessment include the definition's impact on protected area scope, the ecological continuity of the Aravalli Range, and the implications of regulated mining. The Court also highlighted the need to consider stakeholder suggestions, including those from state governments, environmentalists, and local communities.
A comprehensive report addressing these issues is expected by August 31, 2026, with the next hearing scheduled for September 7, 2026. The Supreme Court's initiative underscores its commitment to preserving the ecological integrity of the Aravalli Hills while balancing developmental needs.
Bottom Line:
Constitution of a High-Powered Expert Committee to comprehensively evaluate ecological, environmental, and regulatory issues concerning the definition and demarcation of the Aravalli Hills and Ranges.
Statutory provision(s): Environmental Law, Constitution of India.
