broadcast every month, has been started by AIR. In addition, AIR is regularly broadcasting spotlights and commentaries on human rights issues. A Member of the Commission participated in a 'phone-in-programme' on Human Rights Day that was organized by AIR. 6.27 The Commission recommends that both Doordarshan and AIR should increase their involvement in enhancing human rights awareness. In discussions with Doordarshan and the I&B Ministry, the Commission has suggested, for instance, that the 10 ,minute slot between the two national news bulletins in the evening could effectively be used for telecasting programmes on human rights issues, Likewise, Doordarshan could also consider a half hour programme each month to provide a round-up in the manner of 'Human Rights Watch'. 6.28 Private television networks have also been contacting the Commission regularly for interviews and stories. The Commission would like to thank them, as also Doordarshan and AIR, for th'e interest they have evinced. This country is fortunate indeed in the freedom and vitality of its media. The lively coverage of issues of concern to this Commission is most helpful to the debate that must accompany the better promotion and protection of human rights in the country. The Commission continues to take suo motu action on reports in the media, which frequently alert it to the most poignant violations of human rights. (G) RESEARCH 6.29 The Commission has not yet been able to undertake its research activities in the manner that it desires. After prolonged interaction with the Planning Commission, the Commission had decided that research should be undertaken, 'under its auspices, in respect of six subjects: abolition of child labour; improving conditions in mental hospitals and the rehabilitation of cured patients; prevention of female foeticide; improving the plight of adivasi women; devising ways of creating a culture of human rights; and the problems of the aged. In addition, agreement in principle had been reached that the Planning Commission would provide an amount of Rs.25 lakhs to this Commission for the carrying out of such research. In March 1996, however, the Planning Commission stated that, as a 'grantee institution," this Commission was not entitled to provide grants to other institutions for undertaking research under its auspices. 6.30 In these circumstances, the Commission decided to use its own budgetary I