New Delhi, May 21 — Chief Justice of India, Justice BR Gavai, today called upon Bar Associations across the country to explore innovative ways of offering financial support to young lawyers entering the legal profession.
Speaking at a book launch event hosted by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), the CJI commended the SCBA’s initiative to raise ₹50 crore for Group Mediclaim Health Insurance for Supreme Court lawyers through corporate social responsibility (CSR) contributions.
Justice Gavai urged Bar Associations nationwide to adopt similar models, stating:
“I hope this becomes a strong model for all Bar Associations across the country. After all, a strong Bar is the foundation of an independent judiciary.”
Emphasizing the challenges faced by young lawyers, particularly those without financial support, the CJI encouraged Bar Associations to proactively create dedicated funding mechanisms to ease their entry and retention in the profession.
“I call upon Bar Associations across the country to explore ways of raising dedicated funds to support young lawyers entering the profession without a financial safety net.”
Justice Gavai observed that financial instability often dissuades talented individuals from pursuing litigation careers. He stressed the need for senior advocates and Bar leaders to not only mentor juniors in advocacy skills but also ensure fair and dignified remuneration.
“The absence of financial support can deter young individuals from continuing in the profession. This is where senior advocates and Bar Associations play a critical role—it is their professional and moral duty to mentor juniors, not only through knowledge sharing but also by ensuring fair pay.”
He highlighted the various hardships faced by new entrants in the legal field—financial insecurity, erratic work schedules, and the constant pressure of sustaining a practice without guaranteed work.
“Financial uncertainty, irregular hours, and the stress of navigating the profession without the assurance of regular briefs are just a few of the challenges faced by young lawyers.”
Underscoring the value of accessible healthcare, the CJI remarked that comprehensive health insurance provides young lawyers with both financial relief and peace of mind.
“Health coverage is not merely financial assistance; it’s a crucial support system. It offers lawyers stability and assurance in times of medical need.”
Justice Surya Kant, who was also present, joined the CJI in praising the SCBA’s efforts. The event also marked the release of a book compiled by SCBA, featuring articles written by young lawyers and celebrating landmark Supreme Court judgments from the past 75 years.
SCBA President and Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal expressed gratitude to the key donors who contributed to the insurance fund, including Anil Ambani, Anil Agarwal, the DMR Group, Gautam Adani, Laxmi Mittal, Mukesh Ambani, and N. Chandrasekaran from Tata Sons.
Sibal detailed the coverage benefits under the insurance scheme, which includes:
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Coverage of pre-existing conditions from Day 1
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Maternity benefits for up to two children
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Hospital room and ICU rent coverage
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Inclusion of family members aged 0 to 90 years
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A broad range of illnesses and medical conditions
