NALSA Launches Free Legal Aid Scheme for Armed Forces on Kargil Vijay Diwas – Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana
Syllabus: Governance, Internal Security (UPSC GS II & III)
Source: Times Of India
Context
On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) launched the ‘Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana’ in Srinagar. This scheme aims to provide free legal aid to members of the Indian Armed Forces and their families.
What is Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana?
This scheme offers free legal services to soldiers and their families through legal clinics set up in Sainik Welfare Boards across the country. It is designed to help them deal with personal legal issues such as property disputes, domestic conflicts, financial matters, etc., especially when soldiers are posted far from home.
The launch was led by Justice Surya Kant, Executive Chairman of NALSA and the next Chief Justice of India, with a clear message:
“You protect the borders, we will support your family at home.”
Why Is Legal Aid Important for Soldiers?
Soldiers often face legal challenges related to:
- Property and land disputes
- Domestic and financial issues
- Limited access to legal help due to remote postings
These unresolved matters can lead to stress and distract soldiers from their duties. The scheme helps by providing accessible and free legal support, preventing minor issues from escalating.
How Will It Work?
The scheme will operate through legal service clinics at Sainik Welfare Boards in each state. Each clinic will have:
- Panel Lawyers: Experienced in providing legal advice and court representation
- Para-Legal Volunteers (PLVs): Assist in initial consultations, documentation, and awareness
The aim is to decentralize legal services and make them easily available, even in remote areas.
A First in Military Welfare
This is the first nationwide legal aid scheme exclusively for military personnel and their families. It is a historic step towards holistic military welfare, recognizing that domestic peace is essential for national security.
Inspiration Behind the Initiative
The scheme was conceptualized by Justice Surya Kant, motivated by the challenges faced by armed forces, especially during Operation Sindoor. It reflects a humanitarian approach from the judiciary towards national service members.
Key Attendees at Launch
- Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal
- Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah
- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha
Their presence highlighted the joint effort of the judiciary, central, and state governments in supporting military families.
Significance and Way Forward
- Boosts morale of soldiers
- Eases family-related legal pressures
- Strengthens civil-military relations
- Sets an example of inclusive and preventive welfare measures
Success will depend on effective implementation, funding, and public awareness.
About NALSA
- Established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987
- Came into force in 1995
- Provides free legal services to the economically and socially weaker sections
- Organizes Lok Adalats to resolve disputes quickly
- Chief Justice of India is the Patron-in-Chief
- Second senior-most SC judge is the Executive Chairman
Objectives of NALSA
- Ensure justice for all through legal aid
- Promote legal awareness
- Conduct Lok Adalats
- Support victims of crime and disasters
Who is Eligible for Free Legal Aid?
Under Article 39A, NALSA provides legal aid to:
- Women and children
- SC/ST members
- Persons with disabilities
- Victims of disasters, trafficking, or caste violence
- Industrial workers and detainees
- Individuals earning below ₹1 lakh per annum
Conclusion
The ‘Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana’ marks a significant step towards ensuring legal empowerment and social justice for the armed forces. By bridging the gap between legal institutions and military families, it upholds the constitutional promise of equal access to justice. As India strengthens its military capabilities externally, such initiatives reinforce the internal welfare framework necessary for a resilient and secure nation. Going forward, its success will depend on timely implementation, coordination between stakeholders, and continued outreach to those it aims to serve.
