New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India inaugurated its third two-week Online Short-Term Internship Programme for the year, welcoming 100 university students from across the country. The students, selected from diverse academic disciplines, will participate in the internship to enhance their understanding of human rights and develop as future Human Rights Defenders.
Inaugurating the programme, Shri Bharat Lal, Secretary General of the NHRC, emphasized the Commission’s vital role in safeguarding the rights of marginalized sections of society. He encouraged the interns to use the experience as an opportunity to deepen their understanding of human rights issues, stating that the programme would help them cultivate empathy and compassion—key attributes for those aspiring to defend human rights.
Shri Bharat Lal also underscored India’s long-standing commitment to protecting human rights, a principle rooted in its ancient traditions. He highlighted India’s history of offering refuge to persecuted communities, showcasing the nation’s dedication to empathy and justice. Lal also touched upon the numerous legislative measures and policy reforms undertaken by India to safeguard both civil and political rights, as well as social and cultural rights, thereby ensuring the dignity of all individuals.
Shri Devendra Kumar Nim, Joint Secretary of NHRC, provided an overview of the internship, which will feature lectures by eminent speakers on various human rights topics. In addition, the interns will participate in individual and group activities to sharpen their awareness of human rights issues. The programme also includes virtual tours of jails, police stations, shelter homes, and NGOs to provide students with an understanding of their operations and the challenges they face.