The latest report from the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), placed before the Bench by amicus curiae Ranjit Kumar and A D N Rao, proposed preparation of detailed procedure/methodology for identification of prohibited areas, macro plans for mining and colonization.

"It is proposed that after preparation of the village-wise and district-wise maps of the prohibited area, preparation of macro plans for mining and colonization, identification of areas falling within the prohibited zone which are absolutely necessary and unavoidable in public interest to be utilised for mining, colonization and other non-forest activity would be undertaken," the CEC said.

If there were any ongoing mining or colonization activity, they should be stopped forthwith by the state government as per the direction of the apex court and under the provisions of the Forest Act, it said. "Once the above areas are identified, the broad principles and guidelines may be laid down in respect of mining colonization and other non-forest activity in the Aravali Hills, which should provide for an independent monitoring mechanism and adequate environment safeguards," the CEC suggested.