T.N. Godavarman Thirumalpad And ... vs Union Of India (Uoi) And Ors.

The Supreme Court directed the Central Empowered Committee to respond to various applications concerning mining activities in the Aravalli hills, emphasizing compliance with the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The Court reiterated that mining is prohibited in areas designated as Sanctuaries or National Parks, regardless of prior approvals from the Ministry of Environment. The Chief Secretaries of Haryana and Rajasthan were instructed to ensure adherence to the ban on mining in the entire Aravalli range, highlighting the importance of environmental protection.