Chandigarh, September 16:
Punjab Jails Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar today inaugurated an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) at Central Jail Sri Goindwal Sahib as part of a landmark reform initiative, under which ITIs have been established in 11 jails across the state.
Addressing the gathering, the Cabinet Minister informed that in collaboration with the Technical Education Department, the Punjab Prisons Department has set up ITIs in 9 Central Jails and 2 Women Jails.
The Jails Minister said that under this major skill development drive, nearly 2500 prisoners will receive training, out of which 1000 will undergo long-term courses and 1500 will be enrolled in short-term courses.
He said the ITIs will impart vocational education aimed at preparing inmates for a dignified life after their release. The institutes will run one-year courses in trades such as Plumbing, Electrician, Baking, Welding, Woodwork, Cosmetology, Computer Technology and several others.
By equipping prisoners with employable skills, this initiative seeks to transform jails into hubs of rehabilitation and reformation rather than mere confinement, he added.
S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said the Punjab Government is committed to ensuring that prisons serve as centres of transformation and to the reformation and reintegration of prisoners into mainstream society. He underlined that skill training and education within jail premises will strengthen inmates’ future prospects and help in reducing re-offending rates.
He further said that this initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of “Rehabilitation through Education and Skill Development”, ensuring that prisoners are given a fair chance to lead productive and respectful lives after completing their sentences.
