40-Hour Mediation Training Programme Concludes in Nuapada

The valedictory ceremony of the training programme was began with a virtual address by *Hon’ble Justice Manas Ranjan Pathak, Executive Chairman of the Odisha State Legal Services Authority (OSLSA).* Addressing the participants, Hon’ble Justice Pathak underscored the growing importance of mediation in the justice delivery system. He described mediation as a cost-effective, time-bound and people-centric process, which not only ensures speedy justice but also helps in reducing the burden of pending cases in courts. He further emphasized that mediation plays a vital role in preserving relationships and maintaining social harmony by promoting amicable settlement of disputes.

During the programme, participants were imparted comprehensive theoretical and practical training on mediation laws, techniques, ethics, communication skills, negotiation strategies and role-play sessions, enabling them to effectively function as mediators in civil, family and other disputes.

The valedictory ceremony was attended by virtually by Shri. Aurobindo Pattanaik, Member Secretary, OSLSA, Cuttack and physically by Shri. Niranjan Panda, District and Sessions Judge, Nuapada and Chairman of the District Legal Services Authority, who appreciated the active participation of the trainees and highlighted the relevance of mediation in ensuring access to justice at the grassroots level. Shri Sunil Kumar Das, Additional District and Sessions Judge, Nuapada, and Smt. Sarojini Sahu, Judge of the Women’s Court, Nuapada, also attended the ceremony and encouraged the trained mediators to utilize their skills for peaceful resolution of disputes. Other judicial officers of outlying stations of Nuapada judgeship also attended the ceremony virtually.

Ms. Navneeta Dash, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority, Nuapada, played a key role in organising and coordinating the programme. She explained the objectives of the training and reiterated the commitment of DLSA to promote mediation as an effective alternative to litigation. She also informed that such initiatives would go a long way in creating awareness and strengthening the mediation ecosystem in the district.

The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to the participants, followed by a vote of thanks, marking the successful completion of the mediation training initiative.