NHRC launches internship to nurture young advocates of human rights

New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched its two-week Online Short Term Internship Programme (OSTI) for November 2025, selecting 80 students from across 16 States and Union Territories. The initiative aims to cultivate awareness and commitment among young scholars towards the promotion and protection of human rights.

Nationwide participation in human rights internship

Out of 906 applications, 80 students representing various academic disciplines were chosen for the internship. The programme provides a platform for college and university students to gain a comprehensive understanding of human rights and their implementation in daily life.

‘Dignity is central to human rights’: NHRC Secretary General

Inaugurating the programme, NHRC Secretary General Bharat Lal said that the Commission’s online internships are part of its mandate to build human rights awareness nationwide.

“Dignity is at the heart of all human rights. Any denial—whether through discrimination or lack of basic amenities—amounts to a violation,” he emphasized. He urged participants to live purposefully, uphold constitutional ideals, and become ambassadors of justice, empathy, and dignity.

Emerging challenges in human rights highlighted

Bharat Lal noted that human rights are dynamic and continue to evolve with time. He pointed out that newer challenges such as cyber security, artificial intelligence, climate change, and access to clean air and water have significant human rights implications. He encouraged interns to make meaningful use of this opportunity to impact society positively.

Comprehensive Curriculum with Practical Exposure

Providing an overview of the internship, NHRC Joint Secretary Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak said that the two-week programme includes 43 sessions led by 34 expert speakers. Topics range from international law and human rights to juvenile justice, mental health, and rights of manual scavengers. Interns will also take part in a virtual tour of Tihar Jail, a police station, and Asha Kiran shelter home in Delhi to understand real-world human rights issues.

Interactive and engaging activities planned

The internship includes a book review competition, group research project presentations, and a declamation contest focused on human rights themes. These interactive elements aim to strengthen participants’ research, analytical, and communication skills.

Inspiring future advocates of justice and equality

The NHRC’s OSTI programme reflects its broader mission to inspire young citizens to uphold the values of justice, equality, and dignity embedded in the Constitution. Lt. Col. Virender Singh, Director, NHRC, was also present during the inaugural session.