India, June 5 -- Former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot has welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to constitute a high-level committee for an independent review of the definition and demarcation of the Aravalli range, expressing hope that it will strengthen conservation efforts.

In a statement issued Thursday, Gehlot said the formation of the five-member panel on the crucial issue of defining and protecting the Aravalli range is a "welcome step".

"We hope the committee will prepare a scientific definition that ensures protection of the Aravalli ecosystem," he said.

The Supreme Court has directed the committee to examine issues and "significant ambiguities" flagged in the Centre's report on the matter.

Referring to prevailing ext...