
The Supreme Court's recent judgment defining Aravalli hills as those 100 meters or higher has sparked controversy. While the government argues this clarifies policy for development and mining, environmentalists view it as detrimental to conservation. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav stated only a small fraction of the Aravallis would be open to mining, with conservation efforts planned. Despite assurances, concerns persist over the region's water and air quality, with North India experiencing prolonged periods of poor air quality and the Yamuna River's pollution impacting Delhi.