The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India inaugurated its two-week Online Short-Term Internship Programme (OSTI) at Manav Adhikar Bhawan, New Delhi. The programme selected 100 university-level students from diverse academic backgrounds out of 2,036 applicants. NHRC Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian presided over the inauguration alongside Member Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi, Secretary General Shri Piyush Goyal, Joint Secretaries Shri Samir Kumar and Smt. Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak, and Director Ms. Satovisha Samajdar.
Justice Ramasubramanian emphasized that Indian youth are fortunate to live away from global conflicts while having access to basic human rights like food, education, and shelter. He cited the Global Peace Index 2025 from the Institute for Economics and Peace, noting the world currently faces approximately 130 armed conflicts—the highest since World War II—with 98 countries experiencing external conflicts. The conflicts have forcibly displaced over 122 million people and caused nearly USD 20 trillion in global economic damage, creating a serious humanitarian situation worldwide.
The Chairperson described the internship as an effective method to engage and sensitize young people about human rights, transforming them into brand ambassadors for the Commission. He stated the programme's purpose is to foster empathy and compassion toward fellow human beings, considering it successful if it strengthens these values among participants by even one percent.
Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi explained that the programme is structured to provide valuable learning through lectures by eminent subject experts. He referenced Article 21 of the Constitution of India, emphasizing that the right to life with dignity is a fundamental right, and encouraged interns to use their gained knowledge for both personal and societal benefit.
Secretary General Shri Piyush Goyal highlighted that the online format enhances inclusivity and accessibility by removing geographical and financial barriers, enabling nationwide participation. He stated that over the two weeks, interns will interact with eminent speakers to deepen their understanding of NHRC's mandate and functioning. The programme aims to inspire participants to become conscientious citizens who uphold human dignity and protect rights in their communities.
Joint Secretary Smt. Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak presented the programme overview, which includes approximately 30 lectures on important human rights topics delivered by 20 eminent guest speakers. The speakers comprise senior government officials, academicians, civil society representatives, human rights defenders, NHRC officers, representatives from international human rights institutions, and subject experts. Interns will receive virtual tours of a Police Station, Tihar Prison, and Asha Kiran Shelter Home to understand their functioning and challenges. Additional activities include a book review competition, group research project presentation, and declamation contest.