3 Things New definition of Aravalli, data exclusivity for drugs, and ED to speed probes
Dec 24, 2025
Join Jay Mazoomdaar, a senior reporter focused on environmental policy, as he discusses the new definition of the Aravalli hills and its implications for local mining and construction. Anonna Dutt, a health reporter specializing in pharmaceutical policy, provides insights on data exclusivity and its potential impact on India's drug industry, including the likelihood of delays for generics. Lastly, they touch on the Enforcement Directorate's push for faster probes amidst mounting criticism. This conversation is a deep dive into pressing issues shaping the environment and healthcare in India.
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Aravalli's Ecological Role And Risk
- The Aravalli range acts as a critical biodiversity corridor and natural barrier against western dust and sand, protecting eastern plains and cities like Delhi.
- Redefining the range risks excluding 80–85% of its area, exposing it to mining and real estate development if protections aren't explicit.
Measurement Baseline Dramatically Alters Inclusion
- The proposed definition counts landforms above 100m local relief, which changes results based on where 'local relief' is measured.
- Using local relief can exclude many hills that would be included if measured from a standardized baseline like lowest state elevation.
FSI's 3° Slope Mapping Versus 100m Rule
- The Forest Survey of India used a 3° slope benchmark to map Aravalli areas across 15 Rajasthan districts, identifying roughly 40,000 sq km.
- The ministry later reverted to an older 100m elevation benchmark preferred by Rajasthan, creating conflicts with FSI findings.