Wed Dec 11 17:34:59 UTC 2024: ## India Celebrates Human Rights Day, Highlights Challenges in Digital Age and Climate Change
**New Delhi, India** – India marked Human Rights Day with a ceremony at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, highlighting the nation’s commitment to human rights while acknowledging emerging challenges. President Droupadi Murmu, the chief guest, lauded India’s progress in poverty alleviation and providing basic necessities like food, housing, and healthcare, emphasizing that these are considered fundamental rights.
Murmu also acknowledged the significant role of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs) in protecting the rights of marginalized communities. However, she stressed the evolving nature of human rights challenges in the digital age and the context of climate change.
Cybercrime, misinformation, deepfakes, and privacy concerns in the digital sphere were identified as significant threats. The President also raised the complex question of accountability in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), where the violator might be a non-human agent.
Climate change, Murmu stated, presents a global challenge requiring a re-evaluation of human rights frameworks. She highlighted India’s leadership in climate action, citing initiatives like the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill, the Green Credit Initiative, and the LiFE Movement.
The President also emphasized the need for policies to support India’s growing elderly population and address the rising concerns about mental health, particularly among children and youth. She urged businesses to consider the mental well-being of gig workers.
The UN Resident Coordinator in India, Shombi Sharp, delivered a message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, reiterating the indivisibility of human rights and the urgency of addressing all violations. Sharp also praised India’s human rights advocacy and its cooperation with the Global South.
The NHRC also released three publications: Hindi and English journals on human rights issues and a book compiling the commission’s advisories. The commission is further organizing a national conference on mental well-being. The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including members of the judiciary, diplomats, and civil society representatives.
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