The Haryana Prisons Department, in collaboration with ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), will launch a three-month vocational training programme in animal husbandry and dairy entrepreneurship for inmates at Karnal Jail. The initiative aims to promote rehabilitation, skill development, and self-reliance among prisoners.
MoU Signed for Training Programme
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was recently signed between the Haryana Prisons Department and ICAR-NDRI to formalise the partnership. The programme is designed to equip inmates with practical knowledge and skills in scientific animal husbandry, dairy farming, milk processing, and dairy entrepreneurship, enabling them to secure dignified employment or start their own ventures after release.
Lakhbir Singh Brar, Superintendent of District Karnal Jail, stated, “We have signed an MoU with ICAR-NDRI. As per this agreement, inmates will receive structured training through the dairy unit established at the jail premises.” The training will cover scientific animal care, nutrition and livestock management, identification of different dairy breeds, animal health and disease control, hygienic milk production, and preparation of value-added dairy products such as ghee, paneer, curd, and butter. It will also include aspects of dairy-based entrepreneurship and self-employment.
Selection and Training Details
In the first phase, inmates from the semi-open and open jail sections who have maintained satisfactory conduct and are willing to pursue self-employment after release will be selected. The three-month structured vocational programme, conducted by NDRI scientists within the jail premises, will provide both theoretical and practical training.
The initiative is under the guidance of Alok Mital, Director General of Prisons, Haryana. Brar added that the programme aims to help inmates become self-reliant and contribute positively to society and national development.
NDRI Support and Impact
ICAR-NDRI Director Dr. Dheer Singh assured full technical and training support for the programme’s successful implementation. He expressed confidence that the initiative would bring about a positive transformation in inmates’ lives, stating, “The project is of great significance for the institute and inmates.”
The department believes such vocational training will enable inmates to support their families and reintegrate into society after release, reducing recidivism and fostering economic independence.
