A first: Undertrial juveniles to be rehabilitated in dist

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the district administration has launched a project to rehabilitate undertrial juveniles in Ludhiana.

Christened as ‘Navi Roshni’ (New Light), the project will train the young criminals lodged at observation homes in the district in extra-curricular activities and soft skill development courses.

Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal while launching the project here said it was aimed at shifting the focus of the juveniles, who had been caught on the wrong side of the law, towards enriching activities and cultivating a lasting positive change among them.

He said the programme would help juveniles to master new skills that they could apply when they leave observation homes to embark on a new journey in their lives.

Jorwal said the initiative was being implemented by Ludhiana Red Cross Society in collaboration with Art Life and Beyond Society. Currently, there are approximately 160 juveniles residing in the observation home here, where they would be taught moral education, theatre, singing, bhangra, painting, drawing, poetry and more as part of the first phase of their rehabilitation curriculum.

In the subsequent phase, they will participate in soft skill development courses, including, tie and dye, knitting, weaving, kalamkari, baking and allied activities.

Highlighting the importance of engaging juveniles in meaningful ways, the DC expressed surprise at the creativity displayed by many participants, noting that some of them excel in drawing while some others have interest in different fields. “The artistic engagement not only improves their concentration and creativity but also helps them make productive use of their time,” he said.

Jorwal emphasised that the purpose of such sessions was to keep the juveniles engaged and to prevent them from dwelling on their past. “By fostering a positive outlook, the programme aims to help these young individuals, who have a long future ahead of them,” the DC expressed while hoping that even a few successful transformations in their lives would be a significant achievement.

He said the initiative was an effort to create a positive environment within the observation home. He also expressed gratitude to Sapna Mittal from Art Life and Beyond Society for collaborating with the district administration to uncover the hidden talents of the juveniles and assist them in transforming their lives.