India bans illegal mining in key regions, cites conservation progress, as debate turns heated.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav affirmed India’s commitment to protecting the Aravalli hills during a March 10, 2026, Rajya Sabha debate, stating illegal mining has been banned in Delhi, Faridabad, and Gurugram. He said the government is considering forming a High-Powered Committee as directed by the Supreme Court, citing past concerns over mining under the Ashok Gehlot government. Yadav highlighted conservation gains, including a rise in tiger numbers to 3,682 and increased tree cover, and noted new pollution control rules. The debate turned contentious, with opposition members walking out over his remarks.