National Human Rights Commission
NHRC, India’s Online Short Term Internship Programme for February 2026 concludes
71 university-level students from diverse academic backgrounds shortlisted out of 1,114 applicants attended
Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal in his valedictory address urges interns to visit schools and spread human rights awareness with the knowledge gained during the internship
Posted On:
17 FEB 2026 1:45PM by PIB Delhi
The first two-week Online Short Term Internship Programme (OSTI) in 2026 of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has concluded which began on 2nd February 2026. 71 university - level students from 18 states and union territories, including remote areas, successfully completed it.
In his valedictory address, NHRC, India Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal congratulated the interns on completion of their internship. He urged them to internalise what they learnt during the internship to develop sensitivity and responsiveness and evolve as model citizens who are aware of their rights and duties. He emphasised the importance of self - introspection and reflection on one’s own actions in order to become catalyst of change. He said that responsibility to protect and promote human rights does not lie only with the government but with citizens also.
He said that justice, liberty, equality and fraternity are pillars of Constitutional framework ensuring that everyone is treated with respect, dignity and equality. Often, vulnerable people are those who are victims of their circumstances. Beggars, transgender persons, persons with disabilities among others, often face serious violations of their rights and dignity and they need to be helped to get their rightful dues. He also advised the interns to visit schools and spread awareness among students about hygiene, sanitation, sexual offences and other such issues which may impact people’s human rights. He said that such small efforts can make a meaningful contribution to society.
Before this, Smt. Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak, Joint Secretary, NHRC presented the internship report. She said that the students were given exposure to various aspects of human rights during the interactive sessions with eminent speakers including Chairperson, Members, Secretary General, senior officers from NHRC, Government of India, as well as experts from the civil society. She also announced the winners of various competitions which were held during the internship programme. These included book review competition, group research project presentation and declamation competition.
Lt. Col.Virender Singh, Director, NHRC delivered the vote of thanks.
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NSK
(Release ID: 2229075)
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