The Supreme Court has established a five-member High-Powered Committee (HPC) led by the Director General of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to conduct a thorough scientific evaluation of matters concerning the definition and demarcation of the ecologically sensitive Aravalli Hills and Ranges. The expert panel, appointed by a three-judge Bench, will review the environmental, geological, and ecological implications of the criteria used to identify the Aravalli range. The committee is tasked to submit its report by August 31, 2026.
The Director General of ICFRE will serve as the ex officio Chairperson of the committee, with members including former officials from Forest Survey of India and Geological Survey of India, as well as experts from Delhi University and Indian Institute for Human Settlements. The committee will also have special invitees to provide assistance as needed.
The objective of forming this committee is to ensure a detailed examination of issues arising from specific parameters outlined in a previous court order. The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of expert analysis before making significant decisions regarding the Aravalli Hills and Ranges. The committee’s role is to assess potential environmental and ecological consequences of proposed measures and provide guidance to the Court.
