The Union Environment Ministry has imposed a complete ban on new mining leases across the entire Aravalli range, from Gujarat to Delhi, to protect the fragile ecosystem. This directive, aimed at curbing unregulated mining and preserving the geological integrity of the mountain range, aligns with a Supreme Court order. The ministry has also tasked the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) with identifying additional no-go zones and preparing a sustainable mining management plan. However, the Congress party criticizes the move, arguing that a new definition of Aravalli hills based on a 100-meter elevation threshold leaves over 90% of the range unprotected and open to exploitation.