NHRC Chairperson Justice Shri Arun Mishra and Joint Secretary Smt. Anita Sinha attending the GANHRI Annual Meeting in Geneva Another significant aspect of the NHRC’s work has been its contribution in formulating and amending human rights laws. The Commission has been instrumental in shaping the legal framework for human rights protection by analyzing the gaps in existing legislation and making recommendations for legal reforms. It has advocated for incorporating international human rights standards into domestic laws. NHRC, from time to time, has endeavoured to give a positive meaning and a content to the objectives set out in the PHRA. It has moved vigorously and effectively to use the opportunities provided to it by the Act to promote and protect human rights in the country. The Commission, consistent with its mandate, took up issues involving human rights that are of significance, either suo motu, or when brought to its notice by the civil society, the media, concerned citizens, or expert advisers. The NHRC has endeavoured to safeguard the human rights by making consistent efforts in protecting vulnerable groups, strengthening the criminal justice system, doing away with stringent legislations, protecting health and mental health, securing the right to education and a right to healthy environment, protecting human rights infringement in business sector and the like. Expanding Commission’s Network and Presence One of the most far-reaching responsibilities entrusted to the Commission under its Statute is that contained in Section 12(h), which requires the Commission “to spread human rights literacy among various sections of society and promote awareness of the safeguards available for the protection of these rights through publications, the media, seminars and other available means”. NHRC continuously works towards expanding its network, presence and scope through various initiatives and strategies. Some of the key holders in its network include, the State Human Rights Commissions, Special Rapporteurs, Special Monitors, Core Group Members, Human Rights Defenders, Civil Society Organizations, amongst others. 6 | HUMAN RIGHTS FOR ALL www.nhrc.nic.in, covdnhrc@nic.in, @India_NHRC