New Delhi, October 4 (HS): The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has concluded its third Online Short Term Internship Programme for 2025-2026, with 74 university-level students from 21 states and Union Territories successfully completing the enriching two-week journey.

Addressing the valedictory session, NHRC Member Vijaya Bharathi Sayani congratulated the interns and commended their dedication throughout the programme. Emphasising the Commission's role as a guardian of justice and equality, she highlighted NHRC's work in areas including women's rights, child protection, mental health, custodial justice and empowerment of marginalised communities.

Sayani urged the participants to become active defenders of human dignity and use their knowledge for societal good. Remain vigilant, raise your voices against injustice and help build a more inclusive and equitable society, she told the young interns, calling on them to uphold constitutional principles in both personal and professional spheres.

The programme, inaugurated by Secretary General Bharat Lal on August 22, offered participants sessions from experts in fields including psychology, forensic science and business and human rights. Smt Sayani praised the breadth of learning offered during the internship.

Joint Secretary Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak presented the internship report, detailing the comprehensive curriculum. Beyond sessions conducted by NHRC Members and senior officers, the interns participated in virtual tours to Tihar Jail, a police station and Asha Kiran Shelter Home in Delhi. These experiences provided insights into how government institutions function, mechanisms to protect human rights and the realities faced by vulnerable sections of society.

The programme concluded with the announcement of winners from the book review, group research project presentation and declamation competitions.Joint Secretary Samir Kumar and Lt Col Virender Singh, Director at NHRC, were present at the valedictory ceremony.

The Online Short Term Internship Programme equips students from various academic backgrounds with tools to understand and address key human rights issues through hands-on learning, interactive discussions, international law studies and practical advocacy methods.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar