Aravalli Mining Row: Centre Cites 0.19% Eligibility, Opposition Warns of NCR Damage

• Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav states Aravalli is protected, mining is strictly limited to 0.19% of its area, adhering to Supreme Court guidelines.
• Yadav dismisses claims of unrestricted mining, asserting the government's policy focuses on conservation and that misinformation is being spread.
• Congress leaders Sachin Pilot and Pawan Khera warn that relying on outdated data for mining could cause severe ecological harm to the National Capital Region (NCR).
• Pilot highlights Aravallis' role in preventing desertification and announces a protest in Jaipur, fearing destruction of the ancient mountain range.
• Environmental experts caution that further degradation of Aravallis could intensify air pollution, water shortages, and heat stress in the NCR.

Why It Matters: Centre defends limited Aravalli mining, but opposition and experts warn of severe ecological damage to NCR.