NHRC Launches Online Internship Programme for Students

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, has commenced the November 2025 edition of its two-week Online Short-Term Internship Programme (OSTI).

Designed to strengthen understanding and awareness of human rights among youth, the programme attracted 906 applications, from which 80 students representing diverse academic backgrounds and 16 States and Union Territories were selected.

The initiative aims to equip college and university students with foundational and practical knowledge of human rights promotion, protection, and challenges in contemporary society.

Inaugural Address: Inspiring Youth to Champion Human Dignity

In his inaugural address, Shri Bharat Lal, Secretary General, NHRC, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to expanding human rights awareness across the country, especially by leveraging the reach of online platforms.

He emphasised that the NHRC’s mandate extends beyond monitoring violations—it includes cultivating a culture of dignity, respect, and empathy among citizens.

Highlighting that dignity is central to all human rights, he pointed out that any form of denial—whether through discrimination or absence of basic amenities—constitutes a violation.

He urged the interns to reflect deeply on these values and live purposefully while translating constitutional principles into meaningful action. As future leaders and thinkers, he encouraged them to become ambassadors of justice, compassion, and dignity in both professional and personal spheres.

Shri Lal also drew attention to emerging and rapidly evolving human rights concerns. Issues such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, climate change, clean air, and clean water are becoming increasingly significant in shaping the human rights discourse.

He encouraged the interns to use this opportunity to build purpose-driven careers that positively impact societal well-being.

Programme Structure: 43 Sessions, Expert Speakers, and Practical Exposure

Providing an overview of the internship structure, NHRC Joint Secretary, Smt Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak, highlighted that the programme consists of 43 intensive sessions delivered by 34 expert speakers.

These sessions cover a wide array of themes, including international human rights law, the rights of manual scavengers, mental health as a human right, juvenile justice, gender rights, and other critical areas.

To offer real-world exposure, the interns will take virtual tours of Tihar Jail, a Delhi police station, and the Asha Kiran shelter home, enabling them to observe institutional functioning and existing conditions closely.

The internship also includes interactive components such as a book review competition, group research presentations on human rights issues, and a declamation contest to encourage analytical and communication skills.

Lt. Col. Virender Singh, Director, was also present during the inauguration, marking the formal commencement of the programme.

Link for more information about the NHRC Internship.

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