New Delhi/Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday issued directives for the implementation of the ‘One Jail, One Product’ initiative in all state prisons, aiming to promote skill development, vocational training, and inmate self-reliance. The instructions were given during a meeting of the Jail Development Board, which was chaired by CM Dhami.
Focus on Prison Reforms and Skill Development
During the meeting, CM Dhami emphasised the importance of prison reform and rehabilitation, stating that Uttarakhand should develop a unique model for comprehensive prison development. He instructed that inmates should be provided with training in various trades to prepare them for productive integration into society post-release.
To facilitate these efforts, CM Dhami directed prison authorities to collaborate with Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) for conducting regular vocational and skill development programmes. The Chief Minister stressed that every jail should have its own flagship product, produced by inmates, under the ‘One Jail, One Product’ scheme to enhance economic self-sufficiency and practical learning.
Senior officials from the prison department attended the meeting, where discussions also focused on strengthening the state’s prison management framework and promoting initiatives that encourage inmate rehabilitation and entrepreneurship skills.
CM Dhami’s Measures Against Human-Wildlife Conflict
Apart from prison reforms, CM Dhami also addressed rising human-wildlife conflict in Pauri district. He directed that the Forest Department teams must respond within 30 minutes of receiving information about any wildlife-related incidents, with responsibility assigned to the concerned DFOs and Rangers.
Immediate financial assistance must be provided to affected individuals, and the Chief Minister ordered escort services for schoolchildren in areas severely affected by wildlife. Following recent incidents, CM Dhami took strict action by removing the Pauri DFO from his post to ensure accountability and timely response.
Vision for a Progressive Uttarakhand
Through these measures, CM Dhami highlighted his vision for a progressive Uttarakhand, combining modern prison reforms, vocational empowerment, and efficient disaster and wildlife management. The dual focus on rehabilitation and public safety reflects the state government’s commitment to inclusive development and citizen welfare.
This initiative is expected to enhance the skill sets of inmates, reduce recidivism, and contribute positively to the state’s socio-economic development while ensuring robust mechanisms to manage human-wildlife conflicts efficiently.
