Around 1,200 inmates in Delhi Prisons are set to undergo hospitality sector-related skill training to facilitate their reintegration into society post-incarceration, officials announced on Friday.

The initiative aims to extend support to those often overlooked by society, providing them an opportunity to lead a life of dignity and respect, according to Director General (Prisons) Sanjay Baniwal. Targeting undertrial inmates held for minor offenses, the program focuses on reform and rehabilitation, offering education, vocational training, and therapy to reduce the likelihood of recidivism.

The National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) Level 4 training program spans 340 hours of coursework, with Delhi Prisons collaborating with Max Healthcare for the project. Baniwal emphasized that empowering individuals to generate income reduces the likelihood of returning to a life of crime, advocating for second chances and prioritizing the protection of personal data to facilitate a smoother restart process.

In its inaugural year, the program will train participants as ‘food and beverage stewards’ for the hospitality sector, providing job market opportunities and facilitating their reintegration into society. Certification from the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) aligns with the guidelines of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC).

The partnership emphasizes direct industry interaction, including placement workshops and mock interviews for successful graduates of the program. Baniwal also highlighted the success of ‘Prarambh,’ a reform program launched in February 2023, achieving a remarkable 94 percent certification rate. This program, a collaboration between the Urban Development Ministry and Mission Convergence of the Delhi government, aims to address the critical issue of individuals resorting to crime due to a lack of alternatives by providing opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.

Abhay Soi, chairman and managing director of Max Healthcare Institute Ltd, expressed hope that the skill training initiative would empower inmates to lead productive lives upon release, contributing to a better and safer society. He emphasized Max Healthcare’s commitment to making a positive difference through its CSR program in the areas of education and skill training for underserved communities.

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