A 19-year-old youth in Pune recently reflected on his life three years ago, feeling immense gratitude that he did not descend into a life of crime. Influenced by a local 'dada', he and two friends were once detained in a dacoity case, believing it was the quickest way to earn Rs 500. That arrest, however, became a pivotal wake-up call.
From Police Station to a New Path
The young man recounted the moment of truth at the police station. "The 'dada' we admired never came to help us. We saw our parents crying and begging the police to let us go," he said. After securing bail, he and his friends received counselling from the Pune Police and were gradually introduced to vocational training. They learned to repair watches, create Ganesha idols, and stitch mattresses and bags.
Orders started coming in from various police stations themselves. The most profound moment for him was when officers at the very police station where he was once seen as a criminal began offering him tea and biscuits, speaking to him like a friend. "It was one of the best feelings in my life," he shared. He is now one of at least 700 juvenile offenders who have been reformed and rehabilitated through the Pune Police's initiative, with none returning to crime.
The Genesis and Impact of Mission Parivartan
Joint Commissioner of Police Ranjan Kumar Sharma told TOI that in 2023, there was growing concern about teenagers, including repeat offenders, being drawn into criminal activities. "We wanted to do something so that they could be brought into the mainstream," Sharma stated. After multiple sessions and consultations, the police identified skill training as a key solution. This led to the creation of Mission Parivartan with support from an NGO.
The program identifies teens who have had an encounter with the law. A dedicated team counsels them and facilitates training in new skills. The police and prison authorities then provide them with contract work. Regular follow-ups with parents help keep the youths on a straight path. "Gradually, mothers of these juveniles and many other women from poor backgrounds got associated with the initiative. It has delivered results and reformed youths are emerging as role models for others in their areas," Sharma added.
Personal Transformations and Statistical Success
The initiative's success is echoed in personal stories. One teenager from the Cantonment area, booked for two murders at age 16, said he was drawn to the money and connections of gang life. "I thought it was the end of the world when I was booked. But the Pune Police's programme gave me an opportunity to reform," he said. He learned new skills, moved to a different city, and now runs his own juice shop, feeling reintegrated into society.
Another case involved a 14-year-old who shot an older bully with a country-made pistol. Enrolled in Mission Parivartan, he received anger management counselling and skill development. Yogesh Jadhav from the mission emphasized their focus on preventing repeat offenses through sustained engagement with offenders and their families.
Sharma revealed they have data on nearly 4,000 juvenile offenders and have reached out to 1,500 so far. "Over 700 are regularly in touch. They have not indulged in criminal activities and have assimilated into society. The CM's X handle has shared our efforts and appreciated them," he said.
The program delves deep into the root causes of crime. "We dig hard into the nature of the crime, the factors behind it... Family issues and economic conditions have contributed to most juvenile crimes," explained Yogesh Jadhav. Their action plan involves keeping youths away from negative influences like cellphones, providing skill training, and ensuring regular work.
Recent statistics from the Pune Police illustrate the broader context of juvenile crime in the city:
- 2025: 149 cases against 232 juveniles (up to October 2025)
- 2024: 303 cases involving 514 juveniles
- 2023: 293 cases involving 435 juveniles
- 2022: 342 cases involving 544 juveniles
- 2021: 336 cases involving 519 juveniles
Mission Parivartan stands as a testament to the power of rehabilitation and second chances, effectively steering young lives away from crime and towards productive citizenship.
