PMO Reviews Administrative Lapses Amid Aravalli Controversy and UGC Circular Backlash

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is reportedly reviewing the performance of several ministries and departments following controversies surrounding the Aravalli Range issue and a University Grants Commission (UGC) circular. Sources say these cases have exposed administrative laxity and prompted heightened scrutiny within the government

New Delhi | 25 February 2026: The Aravalli Range controversy stems from a 2025 committee report under the Environment Ministry, which proposed a 100-meter development formula. Critics argued that this would open up 90 percent of the environmentally sensitive area to mining. Although the ministry initially supported the formula, the Supreme Court suspended it, leading the Centre to direct states to ban new mining leases in the region. Observers noted that unlike previous instances, the PMO did not intervene proactively, raising concerns about bureaucratic oversight.

Similarly, the UGC circular issued in 2026 to promote equality in higher education sparked nationwide debate. The notification aimed to address caste-based discrimination by focusing on Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes. Critics argued that complaints from the general category might be overlooked. Initially, the ministry backed the circular, but the PMO later sought clarification, revealing that the UGC had issued the regulations autonomously without consultation, highlighting gaps in administrative coordination.

Political analysts suggest that these issues come at a sensitive time, with elections in Gujarat and Bihar influencing strategic priorities. BJP chief Nitin Nabin recently visited Gujarat with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, while AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal toured the state with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. AAP’s growing presence in Gujarat, from 12.92 percent of votes in 2022 to a projected 25 percent, signals a potential shift in political dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly challenging Congress’s relevance.

In Bihar, political observers note a contrast in leadership style. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar publicly eschews dynastic politics, but reports indicate party leaders are actively promoting his son Nishant Kumar for organizational posts and a Rajya Sabha seat. Sources suggest that while Nitish remains publicly neutral, he privately allows political mentoring to continue, emphasizing that inheritance in politics is seen as compulsion rather than ambition.

The review by the PMO highlights a broader effort to tighten administrative accountability ahead of the election cycle, as controversies and rising opposition activity underscore the need for vigilant governance.

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