After public outrage over mining concerns in the Aravallis, the Centre has issued a clarification, insisting there will be no unrestricted mining. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav says only a minuscule area could be considered, and that the move is aimed at curbing illegal mining through stricter definitions and compliance. However, environmentalists warn the real threat lies in a recent interpretation by the Supreme Court of India, which limits protection to hills rising over 100 metres. Critics fear this could strip nearly 90 per cent of the Aravalli Range of legal safeguards, endangering a vital ecological barrier for north India.