National Human Rights Commission launches a two‑week online short‑term internship program in India

National Human Rights Commission Launches Two-Week Online Short-Term Internship Programme

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) launched a two‑week online short‑term internship programme in September of this year, aimed at familiarising university‑level students and budding professionals with policy‑making, monitoring and enforcement processes related to human rights. Over the past decade, India has seen several legislative and institutional initiatives for the protection and promotion of human rights, yet a lack of practical training has often been considered a major gap. To bridge this gap, the commission has developed a structured learning‑training model via a digital platform, thereby providing equal opportunities nationwide.

The programme offers a total of 150 slots, with the selection process prioritising academic qualifications, social engagement and a written proposal as the main criteria. Selected interns will receive expert lectures, case studies and virtual field visits on various dimensions of human rights—such as fundamental rights, socio‑economic rights, women's and children's rights, and refugee and migrant rights. Throughout the programme, senior NHRC officials, national and international NGOs, and experts from academic institutions will provide guidance. Additionally, interns will participate in real complaint‑resolution processes, conduct data analysis, and prepare policy recommendations through virtual workshops.

The chairman stated that this initiative is a significant step to empower young people to play an active role in safeguarding human rights, and plans to expand it on an annual basis in the future.