Jeans unit to come up inside Ballari Central Prison under CSR

Photo: Ballari Central PrisonBallari: A jeans garment manufacturing unit is set to come up at the Central Prison in Ballari, aimed at providing skill training and employment to inmates.The prison authorities plan to collaborate with Jindal (JSW Steel) under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme to train prisoners in stitching jeans and develop a market for the products.The prison department has been offering handicraft and other vocational training to promote self-reliance and rehabilitation among inmates. However, officials said it has not been possible to provide adequate work to all prisoners, particularly those serving rigorous imprisonment.The proposed unit is expected to address this gap by creating structured employment opportunities within the prison, said Prison Superintendent Latha R.Deputy commissioner K Nagendra Prasad has held discussions with Jindal officials regarding the project. A team from the company is expected to visit the Ballari Central Prison within four to five days to conduct a site inspection. If implemented as planned, the initiative is expected to provide regular work for inmates and support their financial stability.According to the prison superintendent, under the programme, inmates will be trained in garment design, stitching techniques, and related skills. While the prison will provide manpower, Jindal will be responsible for setting up the unit, training, procurement of garments, and overall operations.The Ballari Central Prison currently houses 464 inmates, of whom 215 are serving rigorous imprisonment. As per rules, such inmates are required to be provided full-time work, enabling them to earn wages and support themselves. Officials said the income earned during incarceration could help inmates take up self-employment after their release.Superintendent Latha said that in the first phase, 50 inmates will be trained, with plans to extend the programme to other eligible prisoners in a phased manner. Preliminary work has begun and the unit is expected to become operational soon.She added that Jindal officials have been requested to visit the prison and are likely to do so within the next few days.