New Delhi, Dec. 22 -- Asserting that the new and controversial definition of the Aravalli hills is applicable only for mining purposes, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Monday said that just 277.89 sq km, about 0.19 per cent, of the total Aravalli landscape is open to mining, and no new mining leases will be granted until a detailed scientific study is completed.

Addressing a press conference to allay concerns over the revised definition, Yadav said the Modi government remains firmly committed to the Green Aravalli mission and that fears of large-scale ecological dilution are misplaced.

"This definition related to the Aravalli hills is applicable only for mining purposes. It will be used solely in the context of mining. Min...