Archive · 24 Jul 2025
Free Legal Aid Scheme Extension Under Review, Says Union Minister
Imagine a program that helps people who can't afford lawyers get free legal advice.
This program, called DISHA, has been helping lots of people since 2021 by offering services like phone calls with lawyers and teaching people about their rights.
It's like having a friend who knows about the law.
The government is now deciding if they should keep this program going after March 2026.
Before they decide, they will check how well the program is working.
The program uses video calls, a special app, and a toll-free number to connect people with lawyers.
It has helped over 2 crore people so far!
The DISHA scheme, providing free legal aid, is under review for extension beyond March 2026.
The scheme has assisted 2.10 crore people with legal services from 2021 to June 30, 2024.
Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal announced the review in the Rajya Sabha.
DISHA includes Tele-Law, Nyaya Bandhu, and legal literacy programs.
Tele-Law connects citizens with lawyers via video conferencing and a toll-free helpline.
- Who
- Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal made the announcement regarding the DISHA scheme.
- What
- A review will be conducted to decide on extending the DISHA scheme for free legal aid.
- When
- The review will precede a decision on the scheme's continuation beyond March 2026.
- Where
- The announcement was made in the Rajya Sabha.
- Why
- To assess the effectiveness of the scheme before potentially extending it.
Current State
Future Considerations
Scheme Status
Current State
The DISHA scheme currently provides legal aid services.
Future Considerations
The government will decide if it should be extended after reviewing the outcome.
- Scheme Name
- Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice India (DISHA)
- Minister
- Arjun Ram Meghwal
- Beneficiaries Reached (approx.)
- 2.10 crore
- Services Offered
- Tele-Law, Nyaya Bandhu, Legal Literacy Programs
- Tele-Law Helpline Number
- 14454
- Languages for Tele-Law App
- 22 scheduled languages