NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION human rights through training and awareness programmes, as well as sharing of best practices of the NHRC with SHRCs, particularly in the area of conducting inquiries and investigation. 2.50 Justice Shri Dalveer Bhandari, Member of the International Court of Justice, while inaugurating the conference, stated that the principle of ‘universality’ is the cornerstone of human rights. This principle was first emphasized in the Charter of the United Nations in 1945 and reiterated through the adoption of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. He added that the Preamble to the Constitution of India is also premised on the principle of the dignity inherent in all human life. Justice Bhandari expressed his appreciation for the role that NHRC and SHRCs have played in the protection and promotion of human rights, reflected in the increase in the number of complaints received by the NHRC since its inception. Justice Bhandari further emphasized that there is a need to further strengthen these Commissions, especially the SHRCs to enable them to function more effectively. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in NHRC 2.51 The Commission imbibes the idea of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and has organized Special drives for weeding out of old records during April to June, 2016 and also initiated action for disposal of obsolete items. The Commission also organized special cleanliness drives in and around the Manav Adhikar Bhawan, office building of the National Human Rights Commission and special drives for cleanliness of the IT items and its accessories of the Commission. Banners with slogans were displayed in the building and website for spreading awareness about ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’. Various circulars were also issued to all the Divisional Heads requesting to carry out special drives for their officers and staff to participate in the cleanliness drives organized for Swachh Bharat Abhiyan during the year 2016-17. 2.52 Following Swachhta Action Plan (SAP) has also been prepared for the year 2017-18 for the office of the Commission: S. No. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 22 Programmes/Schemes/Activities Display of banners on the NHRC website and at main entrance, back gate, central courtyard and other areas in the building. Issue of circulars to all the Divisional Heads requesting to organize special drives to undertake the cleanliness and awareness campaign for the officers & staff of the Commission. Special drives for weeding out of old records. Organizing of special cleanliness drives periodically for the purpose. Organizing of special drives for cleanliness of the IT items and its accessories. Procurement of house-keeping/toiletry items for special drives. ANNUAL REPORT 2016-2017