NHRC Concludes First Online Short-Term Internship Programme of 2026

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has successfully concluded its first two-week Online Short Term Internship Programme (OSTI) of 2026, which commenced on 2 February 2026.

A total of 71 university-level students from 18 States and Union Territories, including participants from remote and underserved regions, completed the programme, reaffirming NHRC's commitment to building a nationwide culture of human rights awareness and responsibility.

Secretary General Bharat Lal Calls for Sensitivity and Civic Responsibility

Delivering the valedictory address, NHRC Secretary General Shri Bharat Lal congratulated the interns on completing the internship and urged them to internalise the learning gained during the programme.

He encouraged the students to develop greater sensitivity and responsiveness, evolving into model citizens who understand both their rights and duties.

"The responsibility to protect and promote human rights does not lie only with the government, but with citizens as well," he emphasised.

Shri Bharat Lal highlighted the importance of self-introspection and reflection, noting that meaningful change begins with individual actions and awareness.

Constitutional Values as Pillars of Human Rights

The Secretary General underlined that justice, liberty, equality and fraternity form the pillars of India's Constitutional framework, ensuring dignity and respect for all citizens.

He drew attention to the challenges faced by vulnerable and marginalised communities, including:

• Beggars

• Transgender persons

• Persons with disabilities

• Others who often become victims of circumstance

"These groups frequently face serious violations of their rights and dignity, and they must be supported in securing their rightful dues," he said.

Encouraging Youth-Led Awareness in Schools and Communities

Shri Bharat Lal also advised interns to actively contribute to society by spreading awareness among school students on issues that directly affect human rights, such as:

• Hygiene and sanitation

• Sexual offences

• Social discrimination

• Public health concerns

He noted that even small initiatives at the community level can create meaningful and lasting impact.

Internship Report Presented by Joint Secretary Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak

Earlier, Smt. Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak, Joint Secretary, NHRC, presented the internship report, highlighting that participants were exposed to diverse dimensions of human rights through interactive sessions with eminent speakers.

The programme included engagements with:

• NHRC Chairperson and Members

• Secretary General and senior NHRC officers

• Government of India officials

• Experts from civil society

These sessions provided students with a holistic understanding of human rights frameworks, challenges, and institutional mechanisms.

Competitions and Recognition of Outstanding Interns

Smt. Chhakchhuak also announced winners of various competitions held during the internship programme, including:

• Book Review Competition

• Group Research Project Presentation

• Declamation Competition

These activities encouraged critical thinking, research, and articulation of human rights issues among young participants.

Building a New Generation of Human Rights Champions

The successful completion of the OSTI Programme reflects NHRC India's continued efforts to engage youth in human rights education and nurture future champions of equality, dignity, and justice.

By reaching students across diverse geographies, including remote regions, NHRC is strengthening awareness and participation in the protection and promotion of human rights throughout the country.