
The Supreme Court has put its November 20 order, which accepted a uniform definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges, in abeyance. Citing the need for clarification and deeper examination, the court proposed forming a high-powered expert committee to holistically reassess the issue. This move comes amid concerns that the previous definition, based on a 100-meter elevation rule, could lead to unregulated mining and environmental degradation. The next hearing is scheduled for January 21.