CJI to launch correctional reform initiative from Patiala Central Jail

The High Court of Punjab and Haryana, in collaboration with the Department of Prisons, Punjab, and the Department of Technical Education and Industrial Training, Punjab, is launching a major correctional reform initiative titled “Empowering lives behind bars: real change – The new paradigm of correctional justice” on December 6 at the Central Jail, Patiala.

The programme will be inaugurated by the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, in the presence of Judges of the Supreme Court of India, Judges of the High Court, and senior state officials.

The initiative aims to transform Punjab’s prisons into centres of learning and rehabilitation by providing nationally certified vocational training to 2,500 inmates across all 24 jails, supported by the Punjab Skill Development Mission.

Under this initiative, 11 ITIs will be established inside jails, which will offer NCVT-certified long-term courses in trades, including welding, electrician, plumbing, sewing technology, cosmetology, COPA, and bakery.

Vocational training for 2,500 inmates

1.. Initiative to be undertaken under “Empowering lives behind bars: real change — the new paradigm of correctional justice”

2. 11 ITIs to be established inside jails under the initiative

3. Vocational training to be provided to 2,500 inmates across 24 jails

Apart from this, NSQF-aligned short-term courses in tailoring, jute and bag making, bakery, plumbing, mushroom cultivation, computer hardware, and other skills will also be offered to inmates. Training will be provided under national standards with certified faculty, modern workshops, a Rs 1,000 monthly stipend, and NCVET/NSQF certification.

A strong reintegration framework ensures post-release continuity through Government ITIs, placement support via DBEE, access to MSME schemes, counselling, and issuance of good conduct certificates. Hands-on learning will be strengthened through jail factories in carpentry, tailoring, welding, bakery and fabrication.

Complementary reforms in Punjab jails include operational petrol pumps in nine jails, sports and yoga programmes, the Prison Inmate Calling System (PICS), Radio Ujala and platforms for creative expression.

“On the same day, the Punjab State Legal Services Authority will also launch a one-month statewide anti-drug awareness campaign, “Youth against drugs,” inaugurated by the Chief Justice of India. Running from December 6, 2025, to January 6, 2026, the campaign will mobilise communities and institutions to combat drug abuse through awareness, legal education and rehabilitation outreach,” said an official.