BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra: National Legal Academy to Offer Compulsory Training for Indian Lawyers

• The Bar Council of India (BCI) is establishing a National Legal Academy (NLA) at IIULER's Goa campus.
• The NLA will provide compulsory training for all Indian lawyers, enhancing their professional development and compliance with new regulations.
• The Academy follows a Supreme Court judgment that directed the BCI to establish an institution providing structured post-enrolment legal education.

The young lawyers from all over the country will come to gain training at the Academy. It will be compulsory training for all lawyers.

The Bar Council of India (BCI) is taking a significant step towards enhancing the professional development of Indian lawyers with the proposed establishment of a National Legal Academy (NLA). The announcement was made by BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra on August 9, during the orientation day event for IIULER's Batch of 2026. This decision follows a recent judgment from the Supreme Court, which directed the BCI to establish an Academy that provides structured, lifelong post-enrolment legal education and strengthens ethical standards. The NLA will be located at the India International University of Legal Education and Research (IIULER) campus in Goa.

The Supreme Court's judgment, authored by Justice PS Narasimha, emphasized the importance of a National Legal Academy that can adapt to technological advancements. The Court also drew inspiration from the existing National Judicial Academy in Bhopal, highlighting the need for a similar institution for lawyers. This development is a significant milestone in the evolution of legal education in India, as it acknowledges the need for ongoing professional development and training for lawyers. The NLA will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Indian law professionals.

The establishment of the National Legal Academy has far-reaching implications for Indian lawyers. Compulsory training at the Academy will not only enhance their professional development but also ensure compliance with new regulations. This initiative is expected to bring young lawyers from across the country to the Goa campus, fostering a sense of community and cooperation among law professionals. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, the NLA will be an essential resource for Indian lawyers seeking to stay updated on the latest developments and best practices.

Lawyers in India should watch for the implementation of compulsory training at the National Legal Academy, which may impact their professional development and compliance with new regulations.

Source: Original reporting via The Bar Council of India (BCI) announcement