Jaipur, Dec. 28 -- Chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Saturday asserted that the state government will not permit any new mining activity in the Aravalli region, underlining that the ancient mountain range is an invaluable natural heritage of Rajasthan and its protection remains a top priority. Chairing a review meeting of the forest and environment department and the mines department at the chief minister's residence, Sharma said the government's stand is clear that no interference with the natural form of the Aravallis will be allowed. He directed officials to intensify action against illegal mining through joint enforcement drives involving the forest and environment department, mines department and the police in Aravalli districts. He stressed that all concerned departments must work in close coordination and take strict action to curb violations. Sharma said clear instructions have been issued that no fresh mining leases will be granted in the Aravalli region. He added that similar directions have also been issued by the Union government, which will be uniformly applicable across the entire Aravalli landscape. He said the state government is ensuring strict compliance with all environmental safeguards and guidelines issued from time to time by the Supreme Court and the Central Empowered Committee while dealing with mining leases. The chief minister said a Rs.250-crore Green Aravalli Development Project has been launched to rejuvenate the mountain range. Under the project, dense plantation is being carried out across 32,000 hectares in Aravalli districts to restore greenery and strengthen the region's ecological balance....