New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, inaugurated a two-week online Short-Term Internship Programme for 60 university-level students from diverse academic disciplines across the country. The program, designed to deepen understanding and awareness of human rights, aims to inspire the next generation to contribute meaningfully to the protection and promotion of these rights.
In his inaugural address,Bharat Lal, Secretary General, NHRC, encouraged the interns to use this platform to internalize human rights principles and reflect on India’s long-standing ethos of empathy and compassion.
“India has always stood as a beacon of universal brotherhood, offering refuge to persecuted communities worldwide. This internship is an opportunity for young minds to prepare for future challenges in human rights advocacy,” Lal said.
He emphasized the importance of sensitivity and responsiveness toward vulnerable and marginalized sections of society and urged participants to engage deeply with the ideals enshrined in the Indian Constitution and the mechanisms established by the legislature, judiciary, and the NHRC to uphold these principles.
Devendra Kumar Nim, Joint Secretary, NHRC, provided an overview of the programme, which includes interactive sessions with eminent speakers on various aspects of human rights. Beyond theoretical knowledge, interns will engage in individual and group activities, including competitions designed to sharpen their human rights awareness.
To provide a practical perspective, participants will embark on virtual tours of institutions such as Tihar Jail, police stations, and shelter homes, offering firsthand insights into their operations and challenges.
The internship reflects the NHRC’s commitment to fostering a culture of human rights in India by equipping young minds with the knowledge and tools to address societal issues.
Through this immersive experience, the NHRC hopes to inspire interns to actively contribute to building a more just and equitable society, rooted in respect for human dignity and the rule of law.