The Rise of Arbitration in India: Is India Ready to Become a Global Dispute Resolution Hub?

Arbitration has emerged as the preferred mechanism for resolving commercial disputes due to its efficiency, neutrality, and international enforceability. India has undertaken significant judicial and legislative reforms to modernize its arbitration framework, particularly through the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 and subsequent amendments, with the objective of establishing itself as a leading global dispute resolution hub. This article examines the evolution of India's arbitration regime by analysing key judicial decisions, legislative developments, institutional growth, and comparative international practices. While acknowledging India's progress towards a pro-arbitration legal framework, it argues that persistent challenges including institutional weaknesses, enforcement delays, and infrastructural shortcomings continue to impede its global competitiveness. The article concludes that although India has laid a strong legal foundation, further structural and institutional reforms are essential before it can emerge as a truly world-class centre for international arbitration.