Overview
The 7-day certificate programme on “Alternative Dispute Resolution: Law, Practice, and Emerging Trends in India” is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive and practical understanding of non-litigious dispute resolution mechanisms in India. The programme begins with an introduction to the concept, evolution, and legal framework of ADR, including key legislations such as the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, and Section 89 of the Civil Procedure Code, thereby laying a strong conceptual foundation. It then moves to the study of negotiation, where participants learn essential techniques such as interest-based bargaining, BATNA, and effective communication skills through practical simulations. The course further explores mediation and conciliation processes, focusing on the role of mediators, ethical considerations, court-annexed mediation, and drafting of settlement agreements, supported by role-play exercises to enhance experiential learning.
In the subsequent phase, the programme provides in-depth knowledge of arbitration law and practice, including arbitration agreements, appointment of arbitrators, conduct of arbitral proceedings, and enforcement of arbitral awards, ensuring participants gain both theoretical and drafting skills. It also examines various ADR institutions and mechanisms in India such as Lok Adalats, Permanent Lok Adalats, and institutional arbitration bodies, along with the growing significance of Online Dispute Resolution (ODR). The programme further highlights emerging trends, including the impact of technology, international frameworks like the Singapore Convention on Mediation and the New York Convention, and the role of ADR in the digital economy and governance. The final day is dedicated to practical training and assessment, where participants engage in drafting arbitration and mediation clauses, participate in mock proceedings, and analyze real-life case studies. Overall, the programme adopts an interactive and skill-oriented approach, equipping participants with the necessary legal knowledge, practical expertise, and professional competencies required for building successful careers in ADR.
Our Trainers
Dr. Manish Yadav
Presently, working as an Associate Professor (ADR) and Deputy Director, Distance Learning Department at National Law Institute University, Bhopal. Prior to joining to National Law Institute University, Bhopal, he was working at Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur as Assistant Professor of Law (Senior Scale/Academic Level 11) and Assistant Registrar. He has worked as Assistant Professor in Jagran Lakecity University in Bhopal, Amity University in Noida, Jaipur National University in Jaipur.
An alumnus of National Law Institute University, Bhopal and Ph.D. (Law) from Barkatullah University, Bhopal, before joining to academia, Dr. Manish has served (2009-2012) as a Consumer Advocacy Officer and Registrar to Electricity Ombudsman in Madhya Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission, Bhopal, India.
His primary interest areas include International Commercial Arbitration, Energy Laws, Telecommunications laws and Real Estate Laws. He was Centre in charge of Energy and Telecommunication Laws and Course Coordinator, Postgraduate Diploma in Energy Laws and Policy which he has designed and developed. As a Centre In-Charge has submitted suggestions for the proposed Amendment to Electricity Act, 2003 and also suggested some additional changes in the form of a SEPARATE DRAFT BILL to the Ministry of Power, Government of India.
He was the coordinator of Distance Learning Centre at Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur for various Postgraduate Diploma Courses (18 Courses) which he initiated since 2019 in association with the Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Patiala. Energy Laws and Policy Postgraduate Diploma is first of its kind in India which Dr. Yadav designed and developed. He is known for promoting innovative, creative ideas in legal fraternity.
He has designed and developed a new LL.M. specialization in Energy and Telecommunication Laws. In his experience of more than thirteen years of experience, he has also executed various charges like Nodal Officer of National Institute Ranking Framework (NIRF), Member of Course Development Committee, Hostel Warden, Dy. Examination Superintendent, Member of Area Advisory Board, Member of Research Committee, Member of Moot Court Society, and Member of Placement Committee, In-Charge of Hostel, Mess-Committee and Faculty in charge of Non-Teaching Credit Courses. He was also a member of the Proctorial Board at the University Level.
Dr. Yadav has authored thirteen books and more than forty papers. Besides organizing conferences, he has also presented research papers in national and international seminars and attended training programs at prestigious institutes such as IIT-Kanpur, Administrative Staff College of India, Hyderabad, Central Power Research Institute, Bhopal, and N.P.T.I. Faridabad.
Recently, Satyam Law International, New Delhi has published his seminal work on “Law Relating to Trade Secret and Technology Transfer” is the first book to bring academic attention to Trade Secret and Technology Transfer in India. His previous book titled as “Energy Laws- Regulation in the Electricity Sector and Protection of Consumer Rights-Regulatory Framework’’ has been foreword by Shri Piyush Goyal (Ex-Minister of State for Power, Coal, and New & Renewable Energy) Government of India, published by Kamal Publishers, Delhi. He had delivered various lectures at National Academy of Direct Taxes, Nagpur, Symbiosis Law School, Hyderabad. He is a regular invitee to UGC-HRDC Centre-Indore, UGC-HRDC Centre-Sagar and UGC-HRDC Centre-Goa to deliver expert lectures.
He is on the Board of Editors of many national and international journals and member of various international professional bodies like Corporate Law Teachers Association, Sydney, Australia & the International Nuclear Law Association in Brussels, Belgium. He is a lifetime member of the Administrative Staff College of India, Hyderabad.
He was awarded ‘GRABS Best Young Teacher Award 2017’ by GRABS Educational Charitable Trust, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Modules
Day 1: Introduction to ADR, Meaning, Nature and Scope (2 hrs.)
Day 2: Legal Framework of Arbitration Law. (2 hrs.)
Day 3: Arbitral Process and Procedures. (2 hrs)
Day 4: Arbitral Award and Enforcement. (2 hrs)
Day 5: Mediation Law and Practice. (2 hrs)
Day 6: Practical Skills and Drafting of Arbitration Agreement. (2 hrs)
Outcomes
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. Professional Competence in ADR Mechanisms
Students will develop practical expertise in arbitration, mediation, conciliation, and negotiation, enabling them to handle real-world disputes efficiently outside traditional litigation.
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Career Opportunities as ADR Practitioners
Participants will be equipped to pursue careers as arbitrators, mediators, conciliators, or negotiation specialists in law firms, corporate houses, and independent practice.
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Enhanced Employability in Corporate Sector
The course will prepare students for roles in corporate legal departments where ADR skills are increasingly valued for dispute management, contract enforcement, and risk mitigation.
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Practical Skills in Drafting and Advocacy
Students will learn to draft arbitration agreements, mediation clauses, settlement agreements, and legal notices, along with developing advocacy skills specific to ADR forums.
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Judicial and Competitive Exam Advantage
Knowledge of ADR laws and landmark developments will provide a strong advantage in judicial services exams, UGC-NET (Law), APO, and other competitive examinations.
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Expertise in Emerging Trends and Technology
Participants will gain insights into Online Dispute Resolution (ODR), digital arbitration, and global ADR practices, making them future-ready in a tech-driven legal landscape.
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Entrepreneurial Opportunities in ADR Services
The course will enable students to establish independent mediation centers, arbitration consultancy services, or ADR-based startups, especially in the growing ODR ecosystem.
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Improved Negotiation and Conflict Management Skills
Students will develop strong interpersonal and negotiation skills applicable across professions such as law, business management, public administration, and social work.
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International Career Prospects
Understanding international arbitration frameworks and cross-border dispute resolution will open opportunities in global law firms, international organizations, and multinational corporations..
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Contribution to Access to Justice and Legal Reform
Participants will be prepared to promote ADR as a tool for speedy, cost-effective justice, contributing to legal reform, policy-making, and reducing the burden on courts.
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Course Title: Alternative Dispute Resolution: Law, Practice, and Emerging Trends in India
1. What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) refers to a set of processes such as arbitration, mediation, conciliation, and negotiation used to resolve disputes outside traditional court systems in a faster and more cost-effective manner.
2. Why should I study ADR?
Studying ADR equips you with practical legal and professional skills that are highly valued in today’s legal and corporate environment, where speedy dispute resolution is essential.
3. What career opportunities are available after completing this course?
After completing this course, you can pursue careers as an arbitrator, mediator, conciliator, legal advisor, corporate dispute manager, or work with law firms, companies, NGOs, and international organizations.
4. Is this course useful for judicial services and competitive exams?
Yes, ADR forms an important part of the syllabus for judicial services, UGC-NET (Law), APO, and other competitive examinations, giving you a strong academic advantage.
5. What is the difference between arbitration and mediation?
In arbitration, the arbitrator gives a binding decision similar to a court judgment. In mediation, the mediator facilitates discussion between parties to reach a mutually acceptable settlement, which is non-binding unless agreed upon.
6. Do I need a law background to enroll in this course?
No, while a law background is helpful, students and professionals from management, commerce, and other disciplines can also benefit from this course.
7. What practical skills will I gain from this course?
You will gain skills in negotiation, legal drafting, dispute management, communication, problem-solving, and professional advocacy in ADR settings.
8. What is Online Dispute Resolution (ODR)?
Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) involves resolving disputes through digital platforms using technology, making the process more accessible, efficient, and time-saving.
9. Can I start my own practice after completing this course?
Yes, with adequate training and certification, you can establish yourself as an independent mediator, arbitrator, or ADR consultant.
10. What are the key laws governing ADR in India?
The primary legislation is the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, along with relevant provisions under the Civil Procedure Code and other legal frameworks promoting ADR.
11. How is ADR different from traditional litigation?
ADR is generally faster, less formal, cost-effective, and focuses on mutual settlement, whereas litigation is time-consuming, formal, and adversarial.
12. What are the emerging trends in ADR?
Emerging trends include Online Dispute Resolution (ODR), institutional arbitration, hybrid dispute resolution models, and increased use of ADR in commercial and international disputes.
13. Is ADR legally binding?
Arbitration awards are legally binding and enforceable. Mediation settlements become binding once both parties agree and formalize the terms.
14. Who should enroll in this course?
Law students, legal professionals, corporate employees, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in dispute resolution and conflict management can benefit from this course.
15. How will this course enhance my employability?
The course enhances your employability by providing industry-relevant skills that are in high demand across legal practice, corporate sectors, and emerging ODR platforms.
