The principal objective of this research paper is to trace the Evolution of the law of arbitration in India and to carefully analyse the various stages of its development. Apart from litigation there are other alternative methods of dispute resolution which are quick and effective in nature. Arbitration is one such method. This paper starts with the Concept of Arbitration during the ancient times, where the author talks about the Arbitral bodies such as the Puga, the sreni and the Kula which existed during the Vedic era and the rules of arbitration written in the Hedaya which were followed during the Muslim Rule. This paper goes on to describe the various acts enacted by the British Empire to give a legislative structure to the law of arbitration in India. Thereafter the author has tried to analyse the various acts enacted by the Indian government which were heavily Influenced by International treaties and Conventions. Finally, the author has analysed the Law for arbitration which is presently in-effect in our Country, that is the Arbitration and Conciliation Act of 1996 along with the amendments made to it till 2019.
Through this paper the author has come to Conclusion that in India the law of arbitration is still in development stage. The law of arbitration in India is still growing and the summit is yet to be touched by this branch of law. Indian Government has taken various significant steps to make the law for arbitration more efficient. Slowly but steadily India is establishing itself as an arbitration friendly country.
