In a landmark initiative, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has launched the Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana 2025, a scheme designed to provide proactive legal assistance to the families of Indian soldiers and paramilitary personnel serving in remote and high-risk regions. The scheme was officially inaugurated in Srinagar by Justice Surya Kant, Executive Chairman of NALSA and the designated next Chief Justice of India.

The initiative aims to ensure that men and women in uniform are not burdened with unresolved legal matters involving their families while serving the nation in conflict-prone or inaccessible regions. It represents the first time in Indian judicial history that structured legal support will be provided proactively to the families of serving personnel.

Key Highlights of the Scheme:

• Legal Representation: NALSA will appoint legal representatives to handle family disputes, property matters, and other civil litigation involving the families of serving personnel across the country.
• National Reach: The assistance will cover soldiers stationed in remote areas, such as Jammu & Kashmir, as well as paramilitary personnel serving in high-risk zones.
• Inclusion of CAPFs: The scheme extends to members of the Central Armed Police Forces (BSF, CRPF, ITBP, etc.), acknowledging their similar operational constraints.
• Judicial Support Structure: District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) will coordinate with local courts to ensure cases are not delayed due to the absence of the serving individual.

Background and Motivation

The scheme reportedly evolved in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, a high-risk military operation that highlighted the sacrifices and personal challenges faced by armed forces. Moved by these realities, Justice Surya Kant initiated the process of conceptualizing a legal framework that would stand in solidarity with the armed forces.

“Our jawans guard the frontiers with unwavering resolve. It is our duty to ensure their families are not left alone in legal battles at home,” said Justice Kant during the inauguration.

Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah were also present at the launch event, marking unified support from both the judiciary and the executive.

Significance and Impact

The Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana is expected to streamline the legal process for thousands of families who struggle with court matters due to the deployment of the primary earning member. By institutionalizing legal aid and bridging the gap between the judiciary and the armed forces, the scheme sets a precedent in legal service innovation.

This move reflects a broader vision of judicial outreach and access to justice, extending constitutional rights and support to those who make the greatest sacrifices for national security.