New Delhi, Dec. 21 -- The Centre has said the Aravalli Hills will remain under robust ecological protection while balancing conservation with responsible development, amid the ongoing protests in multiple regions of northern India after the Supreme Court's recent acceptance of the Union Environment Ministry's definition of the Aravalli hills.

According to a press release by the government, "Under the approved framework, any landform rising 100 metres or more above local relief will be classified as an 'Aravalli Hill', including its supporting slopes and associated landforms. Further, two or more such hills located within 500 metres of each other will constitute an "Aravalli Range", ensuring protection not only of prominent peaks but also...