Govt starts household gadgets repair training for prisoners

Time of India

5 days ago

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Bhubaneswar: The state govt on Wednesday launched a vocational training scheme for prisoners at Bhubaneswar's Jharpada special jail. The programme focuses on providing practical lessons to inmates, enabling them to learn repair and servicing of household electrical appliances, including fans, mixers and air coolers, amongst other gadgets.
The initiative was implemented under the govt's Nutana Unnata Abhilasha (NUA) Odisha project, which utilises current and new training facilities through industrial collaborations to provide skill development training to youths. The skill development department engaged a private company to provide training to about 30 inmates, including both under trial prisoners and convicts.
"The programme seeks to enhance inmates' technical knowledge and repair capabilities for household appliances, while improving their employment and entrepreneurial prospects post-release.
This initiative aims to foster self-sufficiency, boost confidence, and maintain dignity amongst prisoners, while supporting their rehabilitation and social reintegration with industry-recognised certifications," the jail's senior superintendent, Manoranjan Pratihari, said.
Prison officials note that this programme will enable vocational advancement, allowing inmates to acquire practical skills for future employment or self-employment.
It contributes to improved behaviour, as the training reduces idle time and promotes disciplined conduct. "This initiative could potentially reduce repeat offences, as skilled inmates are more likely to find meaningful employment and avoid criminal activities," said Pratihari.
Prison authorities indicated plans for additional skill-based training programmes. A few years ago, the prisons directorate introduced bakery, beautician, salon and hairstyling courses at Choudwar jail in Cuttack, benefiting the inmates.
At Jharpada special jail, inmates received training in song, dance, music, drama and radio jockey courses. Some learnt art, painting and handicraft skills. Across state prisons, inmates produce items related to handloom, fabrics, dairy, carpentry, phenyl, mustard oil, flour, turmeric and fly ash bricks.
"We plan to introduce some new age trades that are in demand these days and can ensure quick employment for inmates once they are released from jails," a prison official said.