India, June 19 -- The Supreme Court on Friday directed the creation of a "Young Lawyers' Professional Assistance Fund" in every state and Union territory (UT), warning that the legal profession risks a brain drain if financially struggling young lawyers are forced to abandon litigation for more secure careers.

In a significant intervention aimed at addressing the growing economic challenges faced by young advocates, a bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice V Mohana pointed out that the initial years of legal practice often impose severe financial hardships, particularly on first-generation lawyers and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, resulting in many talented advocates leaving the profession bef...