The Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) inaugurated its new Centre for Dispute Resolution, Legal Research and Learning at the SILF Building in New Delhi. The Centre represents a significant step in advancing India’s institutional capacity for mediation, arbitration, legal research, and continuing legal education.
The event was graced by Mr. R. Venkataramani, Attorney General for India; and Mrs. Bina Modi, Chairperson, KK Modi Group, whose foundation has extended vital support to the project.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Lalit Bhasin reflected on the long journey of SILF from its establishment to the acquisition of land in 2003 and the construction of the building that now houses this state-of-the-art centre. He noted that the basement of the new building will function as a Mediation and Dispute Resolution Centre, where SILF members will provide pro bono mediation services to promote amicable settlements and reduce litigation burdens. The facility also includes a research wing, training rooms, and modern conferencing infrastructure for member law firms.
Dr. Bhasin emphasised that the centre embodies SILF’s vision of “professional social responsibility”, offering a platform not just for law firms but for the larger legal community to engage in research, collaboration, and social contribution. “SILF today stands as a recognised voice consulted by the Government, Parliament, and regulators on reforms, rationalisation, and modernisation of laws,” he said.
Mrs. Bina Modi, in her address, highlighted her late husband Mr. K.K. Modi’s enduring belief in the power of learning and knowledge-sharing. “He believed that there is nothing more valuable than knowledge. This centre carries forward that legacy empowering generations through research, learning, and understanding,” she said. She added that the KK Modi Group’s association with SILF reflects a shared commitment to educational advancement and institutional excellence.
In his remarks, Attorney General for India R. Venkataramani commended Dr. Bhasin and SILF for their sustained dedication to institution building. “The growth of law firms in India from a handful to several thousand is a testament to SILF’s vision and leadership. This centre will serve as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and excellence in the legal profession,” he observed.