Reinforcing its commitment to constitutional values, the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment will observe the World Day of Social Justice on 20 February 2026 with a special programme at National Law University (NLU), Dwarka, New Delhi. The event centres on reaffirming the ideals of justice, equality and dignity, which form the foundation of India’s constitutional democracy.
Why World Day of Social Justice Matters
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World Day of Social Justice is observed globally on 20 February each year to promote social inclusion, reduce inequalities and ensure equitable access to opportunities, especially for marginalised communities.
The observance aligns with the global commitment to social development goals such as poverty eradication, gender equality, decent work and access to justice. In the Indian context, it resonates deeply with the constitutional mandate of ensuring justice — social, economic and political.
Programme Highlights at NLU Dwarka
The event is being organised by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, in collaboration with National Law University.
A key highlight will be the collective reading of the Preamble to the Constitution of India, led by B. L. Verma, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment.
The reading of the Preamble symbolically reiterates the nation’s commitment to:
- Justice — Social, Economic and Political
- Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship
- Equality of status and opportunity
- Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and unity of the nation
Senior officers of the Department, officials from National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), faculty members and students are expected to participate.
Constitutional Vision and Social Justice Framework
The observance reflects the constitutional framework embedded in:
- Preamble: Declares India a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic.
- Fundamental Rights (Part III): Guarantee equality and protection against discrimination.
- Directive Principles (Part IV): Direct the State to promote welfare and minimise inequalities.
- Affirmative Action Provisions: Safeguards for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, OBCs and other vulnerable groups.
The Department of Social Justice & Empowerment plays a central role in implementing policies related to empowerment of Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, senior citizens, transgender persons, persons with disabilities and victims of substance abuse.
Youth Engagement and Awareness Building
Hosting the event at a premier law university reflects an emphasis on youth engagement. Law students, as future custodians of justice delivery, are critical stakeholders in sustaining constitutional values.
The initiative seeks to:
- Deepen awareness about social justice policies.
- Encourage civic responsibility among youth.
- Promote dialogue on inclusion and rights-based governance.
Such symbolic programmes also reinforce participatory governance and public understanding of constitutional morality.
Global and National Convergence
The World Day of Social Justice bridges global commitments and national action. India’s welfare architecture — including social protection schemes, scholarship programmes, legal aid services, and empowerment initiatives — is rooted in the principle of inclusive development.
The observance serves as a reminder that economic growth must be accompanied by equitable access, social mobility and institutional safeguards for vulnerable groups.
What to Note for Prelims?
- World Day of Social Justice is observed on 20 February annually.
- Organised by Department of Social Justice & Empowerment in collaboration with NLU Dwarka.
- Collective reading of the Preamble led by Minister of State B. L. Verma.
- NALSA officials participating.
What to Note for Mains?
- Constitutional provisions relating to social justice and equality.
- Role of Directive Principles in promoting inclusive governance.
- Importance of youth engagement in sustaining constitutional values.
- Linkages between global social justice goals and India’s welfare policies.
