NCVET nod to launch of new ITI trades across five jails in Haryana

Haryana’s Skill Development and Industrial Training Department has commenced a series of new ITI trades across five district jails —Ambala, Karnal, Kurukshetra, Faridabad and Gurugram — after receiving approval from the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET). A total of 255 inmate-students have been admitted across these 13 trades, according to the official document.

Addressing a press conference today on various administrative matters of the Prisons Department, Haryana, Alok Roy, Director General of Prisons, outlined the department’s ongoing initiatives and future plan of action. He also provided detailed information contained in the document.

“Classrooms, workshops and all required infrastructure have been established, and ITI classes formally began on September 10 this year,” Roy said.

“Following final clearance from the NCVET, a three-year computer engineering diploma is also being introduced at the Gurugram District Jail, where admissions for 28 candidates have already been completed after verification by a technical team from the Haryana Technical Education Department,” he said.

In a major step towards improving monitoring and inmate identification, Haryana is rolling out the e-Measurement (ACU) system in 20 jails, supported by finger-analytical dimorphism (FAD) technology. This includes biometric and demographic data such as fingerprint clusters, palm patterns, DNA, nails and retina scans, which will be stored in the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS). Officials say this will significantly strengthen tracking of habitual offenders.

All jail wings have been instructed to strictly follow sanitation rules, workplace discipline and hygiene, which has helped improve work culture and overall cleanliness standards.

The note also highlights a recent inspection at the Ambala Central Jail on October 30, where poor conditions created by some inmates were identified, but positive work — such as education, vocational training and the production of high-quality materials — was also acknowledged.

The Jail Department has proposed setting up a permanent exhibition at Panchkula to showcase the challenges faced by jail staff and the achievements of well-behaved inmates, with the aim of changing public perception and discouraging youth from crime.

The department has reported significant improvements since August, including no overcrowding, no major scuffles, and better inmate behaviour and discipline.

Officials say strengthening work routines, expanding vocational programmes and reducing the presence of hardened behaviour among inmates remains a priority.