Haryana will launch new skill development programs and a state-wide anti-drug awareness campaign. The initiatives begin with an inauguration ceremony on December 6 at the District Jail, Gurugram . Chief Justice of India Surya Kant will lead the event.
The skill programs aim to equip prison inmates with employment-oriented abilities. This will help reduce recidivism and promote financial independence after their release. The anti-drug campaign targets youth and families across the state to combat rising drug abuse.
Skill Development Programs for Inmates
The Punjab and Haryana High Court, in collaboration with the Haryana government, introduces polytechnic diploma courses and ITI-level vocational training. These programs will operate in various prisons within the state. They focus on imparting technical knowledge, building confidence, discipline, and a sense of purpose among inmates.
The core objective ensures inmates do not face social rejection or economic uncertainty upon release. The program supports reform, growth, and reintegration into society. A committee on ‘Rehabilitation and Skill Development of Undertrials/Prison Inmates’, chaired by High Court Judge Justice Kuldeep Tiwari, played a crucial role in developing this initiative.
Course Offerings
Inmates will gain access to specific vocational and technical education options. These include various ITI courses and a polytechnic diploma:
- ITI Courses: Computer Operator and Programming Assistant, Welder, Plumber, Electrician, Woodwork Technician, Sewing Technology, Cosmetology.
- Polytechnic Diploma: A three-year diploma in Computer Engineering.
State-Wide Anti-Drug Awareness Campaign
The Haryana State Legal Services Authority (HALSA) conceptualized a comprehensive anti-drug awareness campaign. This campaign will launch concurrently with the skill development programs on December 6. Justice Lisa Gill of the Punjab and Haryana High Court and HALSA’s executive chairperson guides this initiative.
The ambitious, month-long campaign addresses an alarming rise in drug abuse cases affecting youth and families. It strives to bring sustainable behavioural change among affected individuals through targeted community engagement. The campaign will also raise public awareness regarding legal provisions under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
It will inform the public about serious consequences of drug trafficking and consumption. The campaign also highlights rehabilitation support systems available for individuals struggling with addiction. A detailed week-wise action plan has been prepared at both state and district levels.
Campaign Activities
Planned activities for the month-long campaign include:
- Awareness rallies
- Street plays
- Legal literacy workshops
- Interactive school sessions
- Counselling camps
- Social media outreach
- Capacity-building training
- Activities supporting vulnerable communities
Inauguration Details and Dignitaries
The inauguration event at District Jail, Gurugram, will host several prominent legal figures. Supreme Court Judges Justice Rajesh Bindal and Justice Augustine George Masih will attend. Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Justice Sheel Nagu, and all High Court judges will also be present at the ceremony.