Gujarat SLSA Launches Community Mediation and Legal Aid Expansion Initiatives
TL;DR
- Gujarat State Legal Services Authority (GSLSA) launched a state-wide community mediation initiative targeting the trading community.
- 25 multi-utility vehicles were flagged off to increase legal aid outreach, especially in rural and underserved areas.
- 11 new mediators received certificates as trainers to support expanded mediation training.
- Initiatives align with the Mediation Act, 2023, and are supported by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
Overview
At the Annual Conference of Judges of the District Judiciary, the GSLSA unveiled new measures aimed at improving access to justice and promoting alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in Gujarat, focusing on community mediation and legal aid expansion.
What Happened
On April 6, 2026, at the Gujarat High Court Auditorium in Ahmedabad, GSLSA, led by Ms. Hetal M. Pavar and Mrs. Arati A. Vyas, organized an event highlighting recent initiatives for legal access.
Justice Vikram Nath, Executive Chairman of NALSA, flagged off 25 multi-utility vehicles intended to support GSLSA and District Legal Services Authorities in reaching remote communities.
GSLSA also announced the launch of its 'Community Mediation (Trading Community)' initiative, aiming to formalize and train mediators within trade bodies under the Mediation Act, 2023.
Certificates were awarded to 11 newly empanelled mediators who will serve as trainers, with the expectation that this will accelerate quality mediation training across the state.
Context
These initiatives seek to spread alternative dispute resolution mechanisms-particularly mediation-to broader segments of society, reduce court burdens, and strengthen community-level trust in resolving disputes.
The efforts align with recent legislative developments such as the Mediation Act, 2023, and are conducted in partnership with national authorities like NALSA.
Why It Matters
- Promotes faster, cost-effective resolution of commercial and community disputes through trained mediators.
- Expands access to legal aid, especially for residents of rural and underserved regions.
- May help reduce case backlogs and support trust-based dispute resolution practices within Gujarat's trading community.