NHRC, India’s coveted four- week Summer Internship Programme concludes

Press release

National Human Rights Commission

New Delhi: 11th July, 2025

NHRC, India’s coveted four- week Summer Internship Programme concludes

80 students selected from various universities across the country, exposed to various aspects of human rights advocacy and the Commission’s activities promoting and protecting human rights

Addressing the valedictory session, NHRC, India Chairperson, Justice Shri V. Ramasubramanian, says true success lies in touching lives with compassion

NHRC, India Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal urges the interns to reflect and align with core principles when faced with uncertainty in life as a way forward

The coveted four-week Summer Internship Programme of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, concluded in New Delhi today. 80 students selected from different universities across the country for the internship, were exposed to the various aspects of human rights advocacy, and the Commission’s activities promoting and protecting human rights.

Addressing the valedictory session, Justice Shri V. Ramasubramanian, Chairperson, NHRC, India, urged the interns to prioritize human connection and kindness over material pursuits, fostering a society united by shared humanity. He highlighted the bonds formed among interns from diverse backgrounds as the programme’s true wealth.

He emphasised that true success lies in touching lives by showing compassion. Wishing the interns a bright and meaningful future, he encouraged them to strive for evolving as a better person everyday to contribute more meaningfully in society through their skills and humanity.

Earlier, congratulating the interns, Shri Bharat Lal, Secretary General, NHRC, India, in his keynote address, underscored the significance of maintaining good intentions and integrity in all endeavours. He advised the interns to carefully consider not only their actions but also what they should avoid, emphasising that ethical decisions, however small, have a profound impact on society. He further encouraged them to reflect and align with core values and principles when faced with uncertainty in life as a way forward.

Ms. Saidingpuii Chhakchhuak, Joint Secretary, NHRC, India presented the internship report, highlighting the Programme’s achievements and announcing the winners of the book review, group research project presentation, and declamation competitions.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Lt. Col. Virender Singh, Director, NHRC, India. Senior NHRC, India officers including Shri R.P. Meena, Director General (Investigation), Shri Joginder Singh, Registrar (Law), and Shri Samir Kumar, Joint Secretary were present on the occasion.

Throughout the Programme, interns engaged in sessions led by esteemed professionals, including the NHRC Chairperson, Members, current and former union Secretaries, officers of several Commissions, ministries, directors of civil society organizations, and other experts. These sessions provided invaluable insights into the Commission’s work and the challenges surrounding human rights violations.

The Programme also featured field visits to key institutions such as Tihar Jail, SHEOWS NGO, National Commission for Women, and National Green Tribunal. These visits offered interns a first-hand understanding of ground realities and the practical aspects of human rights advocacy.

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