Bhubaneswar, 22 June (H.S.): In a significant welfare measure for the legal fraternity, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved a 40 percent increase in the financial assistance provided to advocates under the State Advocates’ Welfare Fund.

The welfare assistance is extended to advocates upon retirement and to their families in the event of their demise. The enhancement is expected to benefit thousands of practicing advocates across various courts in the state.

Notably, this is the first revision of the assistance amount since 2021, when the benefits were last increased.

Under the revised provisions, in the case of advocates who have practiced for five years or less, a financial assistance of Rs 1.05 lakh will be provided to the nearest family member in the event of the advocate’s death. The amount of assistance will increase progressively with each additional year of professional experience.

The revised scheme covers both retirement and death benefits. Advocates who have completed 30 years of practice will be eligible for the maximum assistance amount of Rs 6.30 lakh upon retirement. In the event of their demise, the same amount will be provided to their nearest eligible family member.

The decision reflects the state government's commitment to strengthening the social security framework for advocates and providing greater financial support to them and their families during retirement or unforeseen circumstances.

The enhanced assistance is expected to offer significant relief and financial security to members of the legal profession across Odisha.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda