The Legal Services Clinic inaugurated at the Rajya Sainik Board (RSB) in Kohima, Nagaland, marks a significant milestone in India’s ongoing efforts to support its armed forces personnel and their families. This launch is part of the larger, nationwide rollout of the NALSA Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana – 2025. The aim of this initiative is to ensure that members of the defence services community, whether currently serving or retired, along with their families, receive free and reliable legal assistance. The clinic will serve as a dedicated facility where individuals associated with the military can approach trained legal professionals for help with various legal matters.
The project is spearheaded by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), in collaboration with other major institutions like the Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB), Rajya Sainik Boards (RSBs), Zilla Sainik Boards (ZSBs), and the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), which functions under the Ministry of Defence. This strong partnership reflects a unified effort by both the legal and defence systems to protect the rights of soldiers and veterans across India. The Kohima clinic, specifically, has been established with the cooperation of the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA), ensuring regional accessibility and support tailored to local needs.
During the national virtual inauguration of this legal aid network, Supreme Court Judge and Executive Chairman of NALSA, Justice Surya Kant, led the event, which was attended by an array of dignitaries. These included Chief Justices from various High Courts, the Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, senior officers from the armed and paramilitary forces, as well as key members of the legal community. The presence of such high-level figures reflects the serious commitment behind this scheme and the broad consensus on its importance.
The clinic in Kohima will focus on solving a range of legal problems commonly faced by military personnel. This includes issues related to pensions, service-related benefits, family disputes, civil matters, and property rights. Such legal concerns often go unaddressed due to a lack of proper guidance or support systems, and this initiative aims to bridge that gap. By offering free and structured legal advice, the clinic intends to reduce the burden on military families and ensure their rights are protected in a timely and effective manner.
Neiko Akami, NJS and Member Secretary of NSLSA, emphasised the importance of the clinic during the local inauguration ceremony. He spoke about how this move would bring real and practical benefits to veterans who might otherwise struggle to navigate the legal system. The event was also attended by representatives from the Department of Sainik Welfare, members of the legal fraternity, and ex-servicemen, all of whom expressed support for this vital initiative. The Director of RSB Kohima welcomed the move, acknowledging its long-term value in helping soldiers and their families live with dignity and legal security.
This entire effort stands as a strong example of the government's commitment to those who have served the country. By combining the resources and reach of both the legal system and the defence establishment, the NALSA Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana – 2025 is a step toward ensuring that justice and legal awareness are not just available but actively extended to the nation’s protectors and their families.
