SC to Hear Aravalli Definition, Mining Dispute; CJI Bench to Decide Fate

• Supreme Court takes suo motu cognizance of Aravalli Hills' definition and mining issues.
• A three-judge bench led by CJI Suryakant will conduct a crucial hearing on Monday.
• The dispute centers on a proposed '100-meter formula' for Aravalli, which environmentalists fear would exclude vital areas from conservation.
• Experts warn the new definition could devastate the ancient mountain range, impacting its role as a desert barrier, groundwater source, and 'green lungs' for NCR.
• The hearing will determine the future protection status of the Aravallis amidst existing mining complexities and a ban on new leases.

Why It Matters: SC to decide Aravalli's future; new definition threatens conservation and vital ecosystem services.