Will the Free Legal Advice Helpline Service Be Extended?
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Synopsis
The future of India's free legal advice helpline hangs in the balance as the government prepares for a review. With 2.10 crore people benefiting from this initiative since its inception, the question remains whether this vital service will continue beyond March 2026. Stay tuned for developments!
Key Takeaways
- DISHA scheme launched for 2021-26.
- Over 2.10 crore beneficiaries served.
- Accessible legal services through Tele-Law.
- Integration with Nyaya Bandhu for better outreach.
- Legal awareness programs conducted nationwide.
New Delhi, July 24 (NationPress) A review will be conducted prior to any decision on the extension of a nationwide initiative that has enabled 2.10 crore individuals to access justice from 2021 to June 30 this year via services such as a complimentary litigation advice helpline, as reported to the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.
In a written response, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, stated that the “Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice India” (DISHA) scheme is currently approved for 2021-26.
“To continue the scheme beyond March 31, 2026, during the upcoming Finance Commission Cycle, an appraisal and approval process based on an outcome review is necessary,” Meghwal explained.
The DISHA scheme offers easy, accessible, affordable, and citizen-centric legal services through its components - Tele-Law, Nyaya Bandhu (Pro Bono Legal Services), and Legal Literacy and Legal Awareness programs, without addressing pending cases.
Tele-Law links citizens with legal professionals via video conferencing and a mobile application, allowing for pre-litigation advice.
A toll-free number at 14454 has been set up to provide immediate advice and support.
The Nyaya Bandhu service facilitates connections through the Nyaya Bandhu Application (available on Android/iOS) between interested Pro Bono Advocates and registered beneficiaries eligible for free legal aid under Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
The third aspect of DISHA is the Legal Literacy and Legal Awareness program, which educates beneficiaries about their rights, duties, and entitlements.
As of June 30, 2025, the DISHA Scheme has reached around 2.10 crore beneficiaries through its various initiatives.
To broaden and enhance service outreach, several measures have been implemented, according to the MoS.
The Tele-Law web portal and app have been translated into 22 scheduled languages, and efforts to increase outreach through both print and digital media are ongoing.
Meghwal noted that special initiatives have been made to integrate Tele-Law with Nyaya Bandhu for pre-litigation advice and legal representation.
In collaboration with Doordarshan, 56 legal awareness TV programs were produced in six languages, reaching over 70.70 lakh citizens through air and online platforms.
Moreover, 20 thematic legal awareness webinars have been organized from September 2021 to October 2023 on various socio-legal issues.
Point of View
My perspective remains steadfastly focused on the nation’s progress in legal accessibility. The DISHA scheme has made significant strides in connecting citizens to legal support, and it’s vital that we continue to evaluate its impact effectively to ensure justice for all.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the DISHA scheme?
The DISHA scheme stands for 'Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice India' and aims to provide easy access to legal services across the country.
How many beneficiaries have accessed the service?
As of June 30, 2025, approximately 2.10 crore beneficiaries have accessed the services provided by the DISHA scheme.
What services are provided under DISHA?
The scheme offers Tele-Law for legal consultations, Nyaya Bandhu for pro bono services, and various legal literacy programs.
How can citizens access the Tele-Law service?
Citizens can access Tele-Law through a mobile application, video conferencing, or by calling the toll-free number 14454.
Will the service continue beyond March 2026?
A review will be conducted to determine if the DISHA scheme will be extended beyond March 2026.
