First In-House Vocational Centre Opens at Faridkot Juvenile Home
Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur inaugurated the state's first skill development centre at the Juvenile Observation Home in Faridkot on June 24, 2026. The initiative, the first of its kind in Punjab, aims to rehabilitate young offenders by equipping them with marketable trades before their reintegration into society.
The minister announced that the programme will be expanded to all five observation homes across the state, with launches in Ludhiana and Hoshiarpur scheduled next. The department has set a target of training 211 juvenile inmates across Punjab, covering individuals aged 12 to 19.
First Batch Begins with Hairdressing Course
The first batch at Faridkot started with over 30 participants, beginning with a hairdressing and hair-cutting course selected specifically to align with current market demand. Future phases will expand into high-demand technical trades including mobile repair, according to Dr Baljit.
“Mistakes can happen at a young age, but the government is committed to strengthening these children mentally, physically and professionally,” the minister said. By equipping them with practical skills, the department aims to redirect their energies away from crime and toward sustainable self-employment once they return to mainstream society.
State Government Allocates Dedicated Funds
The state government has earmarked dedicated funds for all five observation homes to continuously introduce new courses based on the evolving career aspirations and demands of the inmates, Dr Baljit added. Officials said the Faridkot launch sets a template for the remaining homes, with the emphasis on trade-based training that can translate directly into livelihoods.
