How to Apply for NHRC Online Short Term Internship Programme (OSTI) 2026
About the Program
The NHRC Online Short-Term Internship (OSTI) is a specialized two-week virtual internship program offered by the National Human Rights Commission of India. This internship programme offers practical exposure and valuable learning experiences in the promotion and protection of human rights. As an intern, you will learn about various areas, such as the rights of women, children, and vulnerable communities.
Key Highlights
- Duration: 2 Weeks
- Number of Interns: 100
- Mode: Completely Virtual (Online)
- Stipend: ₹2,000 (awarded upon full completion)
- Application Timeline: Applications for OSTI open every month (except May-June and December-January)
Who Can Apply?
The eligibility for NHRC Online Short Term Internship includes:
- Students enrolled in the third year or later of an integrated five-year postgraduate program
- Students pursuing the third year or final year of an undergraduate degree
- Students studying in any semester or year of a postgraduate degree program, including those enrolled in a three-year LL.B. course
- Students enrolled in any semester or year of a postgraduate diploma program.
- Research scholars pursuing studies in any academic discipline
- Maintained a minimum of 60% marks in Class XII and in the first four semesters of the degree program, including the course currently being pursued.
Check out our guide on NHRC Summer & Winter Internship.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official NHRC website.
- View the ‘Activities’ section
- Click the ‘Internship Program’ notification
- Review the details of the internship
- Tap the ‘Apply for the OSTI’ button
- Fill out the form, including a 250-word SOP on ‘Reason for Joining as an Intern in NHRC.’
- Upload the required documents (Class XII marksheet, degree certificates, etc.)
- Submit the form before the deadline.
Selection Process
The selection for the NHRC Short Term Internship follows a strict 100-point merit system. Your selection will be based on the following criteria:
- Class XII (30 marks)
- Graduation (40 marks)
- Statement of Purpose (30 marks)
Preference is given to students who demonstrate a genuine passion for human rights research and advocacy in their Statement of Purpose (SoP).
Note: Students who have previously participated in any internship programs organized by NHRC are NOT eligible to apply again.
What Happens During the Internship?
The 2-week NHRC Short Term Internship includes:
- Sessions and Learning: It includes about 40-45 sessions on various human rights issues with domain experts and senior Government of India officials. Interns get the opportunity to interact with the Honorable Chairperson and other members of NHRC.
- Activities: Interns will participate in group projects on human rights issues, conduct book reviews, and watch films on human rights topics (child labor, bonded labor, anti-trafficking, etc.).
Virtual Visits: The internship program includes virtual field visits to a jail, a police station, and an NGO or shelter home. During these virtual visits, you will see how these institutions work and get your questions answered.
FAQs
Answer: To be eligible for the NHRC OSTI, you must be in the 3rd year or final year of graduation, or any year of post-graduation, or a research scholar in any stream. You also need a minimum of 60% marks in Class XII and in the first four semesters of your current degree.
Answer: No, applying for any internship program at the National Human Rights Commission is completely free of charge.
Answer: Yes, all students who complete the internship receive a stipend of ₹2,000.
Answer: No, students who have attended any previous internship program organized by the NHRC are not eligible to apply for the OSTI.
Answer: Yes, all interns who maintain full attendance and complete their internship receive a certificate of completion from the NHRC.
