Lesser Known NLUs That Are Rising Fast in India

 Lesser Known NLUs That Are Rising Fast in India

When most CLAT aspirants think about National Law Universities (NLUs), the focus is usually on the big names — NLSIU Bangalore, NALSAR Hyderabad, NLU Delhi, or NUJS Kolkata. But what often goes unnoticed is the emergence of newer or less-hyped NLUs that are gradually transforming into serious contenders, offering quality education, internship exposure, and promising placement prospects.

This article brings into focus Lesser Known NLUs That Are Rising Fast — ideal for aspirants who want a broader and practical perspective before locking their choices in CLAT counselling.

 Why Are These NLUs Rising?

Several factors contribute to the rapid growth of these institutions:

• Proactive administration and faculty development
• Strategic location near courts or law firms
• Industry collaborations and research centers
• Focused student development through moots, internships, and seminars

Maharashtra National Law University, Mumbai (MNLU Mumbai)

Established: 2014
Location: Powai, Mumbai

 Why It’s Rising:

• Mumbai is the legal and corporate hub of India.
• Strong exposure to top law firms, Bombay High Court, and financial regulators like SEBI.
• Regular lectures from sitting judges, law firm partners, and policy experts.

 Notable Features:

• Specialized courses in maritime law, financial markets, and media law.
• Growing internship and placement support with several students getting PPOs from top-tier firms.

Himachal Pradesh National Law University, Shimla (HPNLU)

Established: 2016
Location: Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Why It’s Rising:

• Peaceful, distraction-free environment conducive for academics.
• Close engagement with HP High Court judges and bar associations.
• Good orientation toward judicial service and litigation careers.

 Notable Features:

• Modern campus with digital classrooms and legal databases.
• Increasing participation in moots and internships in Delhi and Chandigarh.

Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur (MNLU Nagpur)

Established: 2016
Location: Nagpur, Maharashtra

 Why It’s Rising:

• Centrally located with easy access to Bombay and Hyderabad legal circles.
• Emphasis on clinical legal education and real-world casework.
• Ties with judiciary, Bar Council, and tribal rights organizations.

 Notable Features:

• Courses on Adivasi Rights, Cyber Law, and Environmental Law.
• Actively hosts research conferences and legal literacy drives.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Law University, Sonipat (DBRANLU)

Established: 2012 (operational since 2019)
Location: Sonipat, Haryana

 Why It’s Rising:

• Part of the Rajiv Gandhi Education City, with access to multiple universities and innovation hubs.
• Proximity to Delhi-NCR, opening up internship avenues with Supreme Court and top firms.

 Notable Features:

• Developing infrastructure and faculty recruitment drive.
• Academic focus on Constitutional Law, Legal Theory, and Social Justice.

National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam (NLUJAA)

Established: 2009
Location: Guwahati, Assam

 Why It’s Rising:

• The only NLU in the Northeast, serving as a center for tribal and border law research.
• Active collaboration with human rights bodies and Northeast legal communities.

 Notable Features:

• Focus on environmental justice, customary law, and access to justice.
• Steady improvement in moot performances and academic output.

 Key Reasons to Watch These NLUs

 Final Takeaway

If you don’t make it to the top 5–6 NLUs, don’t lose hope. These emerging NLUs are rising fast and closing the gap with the old elite. With the right attitude, internship planning, and academic focus, you can build a powerful legal career even from these newer institutions.

As a CLAT aspirant, make your decision wisely — and be open to growth wherever you land!