New Delhi: The Union Budget 2026–27 has earmarked ₹1,200 crore for the implementation of Phase III of the e-Courts project under the National Mission for Justice Delivery and Legal Reforms, according to the Expenditure Budget tabled in Parliament. The allocation remains unchanged from 2024–25, when a similar amount was provided for the initiative under the Ministry of Law and Justice.
The e-Courts project, launched in 2007 as part of the National e-Governance Plan, aims to leverage information and communication technology (ICT) to modernise the Indian judiciary. The overarching objective is to improve efficiency, transparency and accessibility in the justice delivery system by digitising court processes and enhancing public access to judicial services.
Officials said Phase II of the project was substantially completed in 2023. This phase focused on the computerisation of district and subordinate courts across the country, the rollout of e-filing and e-payment facilities, and the strengthening of case information systems. These measures significantly improved court management and enabled litigants and lawyers to access case-related information more easily.
Phase III of the e-Courts project has been approved by the Union Cabinet as a Central Sector Scheme with a total financial outlay of ₹7,210 crore. Building on the gains achieved in the earlier phases, the new stage seeks to move the judiciary towards a more digital and paperless ecosystem.
According to officials, Phase III envisages deeper integration of court systems across all levels of the judiciary, including district courts, High Courts and the Supreme Court. It also focuses on expanded use of digital records, adoption of advanced data analytics to support case flow management, and improved judicial administration. Strengthening virtual courts and online dispute resolution mechanisms is another key component of the project.
The e-Courts initiative is being implemented under the National Mission for Justice Delivery and Legal Reforms in close coordination with the judiciary and other stakeholders. The continued budgetary support reflects the government’s emphasis on technology-driven reforms to reduce delays, enhance transparency and improve access to justice for citizens.
