SYLLABUS

GS-2: Structure, organisation and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries and Departments of the Government; Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.

Context: 

To commemorate its 30th anniversary, National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has organised a National Photography and Art Showcase titled “Justice for All: Through the Lens of Legal Aid," which serves as the theme for National Legal Services Day, 2025. 

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• The Legal Services Authorities were established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. 
• Since this Act came into effect on November 9, 1995, this day is observed annually as National Legal Services Day to mark its implementation.
• Legal aid is funded through central and state government allocations and donations under the National, State, and District Legal Aid Funds.

About Legal Services

• The definition of "Legal Service" as stated in Section 2(c) of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 includes the rendering of any service in the conduct of any case or other legal proceeding before any court or other authority or tribunal and the giving of advice on any legal matter.
• Their primary aim is to offer basic legal aid, resolve local disputes amicably, and prevent litigation by making justice easily accessible at the grassroots level.

The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 

The aim is to provide free and competent legal services to weaker sections of society to ensure access to justice, which is not denied due to economic or other disabilities. 

• The Constitution of India, as per Article 39A, provides equal access to justice for all, forming the basis of NALSA.

The act established a three-tier system to provide free and competent legal services:

• National Legal Services Authority (headed by the Chief Justice of India)
• State Legal Services Authorities (headed by the Chief Justice of the respective High Court)
• District Legal Services Authorities (headed by the District Judge of the respective District)

Lok Adalats and Permanent Lok Adalats were also established under the Act to facilitate amicable settlement of disputes at pre-litigation and pending stages.

Over 23.58 crore cases were resolved, and over 44.22 lakh people received free legal aid and advice through State, Permanent, and National Lok Adalats between 2022-23 and 2024-25. 

Schemes and Initiatives by NALSA

Legal Aid Defence Counsel System (LADCS)

• LADCS is implemented by NALSA with an approved financial outlay of ₹998.43 crore for the period 2023–26, to provide free legal defence in criminal cases for eligible beneficiaries.
• As of September 30, 2025, the system is functional in 668 districts, with 7.86 lakh cases disposed of out of 11.46 lakh assigned.

DISHA Scheme (2021–26)

• It aims to provide pre-litigation advice, pro bono services, and legal awareness to citizens.
• As of February 2025, it has benefited 2.10 crore people across the country.
• The Legal Literacy and Legal Awareness Programme (LLLAP) under DISHA has developed communication materials in 22 languages and reached over 1 crore citizens through TV programmes, webinars, and regional campaigns.

Legal Awareness and Literacy Initiatives

• Regular legal awareness programmes are conducted to educate citizens about their rights and legal procedures.
• Between 2022–23 and 2024–25, more than 13.83 lakh programmes were organised, reaching about 14.97 crore people. 

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