Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, on December 6, inaugurated modern Skill Development Centres along with Polytechnic diploma and ITI-level vocational courses for inmates lodged in multiple prisons across Haryana. These initiatives form part of the transformative initiative titled “Empowering Lives Behind Bars: Real Change Through Correctional Justice”. The launch event was held at District Prison, Bhondsi in Gurugram. At the same programme, the Chief Justice also flagged off a Statewide Anti-Drug Awareness Campaign across Punjab, Haryana and U.T. Chandigarh to combat the persistent issue of substance abuse.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Justice remarked that the real test of correctional justice begins after a prisoner’s release. Without education, job-oriented skills and emotional support, individuals often struggle to reintegrate, resulting in deeper marginalisation. Reform, he emphasised, must be multi-dimensional — combining counselling, skill enhancement and structured transition support to help inmates rebuild their lives. He noted that vocational training can create pathways to employment, but psychological well-being ensures the strength to pursue those opportunities. The CJI described the new “Youth Against Drug” drive as a vital step toward tackling addiction at its roots, especially among younger populations. He also highlighted the necessity of training in emerging sectors — such as digital applications, logistics and modern trades — and stressed collaboration with industries for future apprenticeships and job placements.

The event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries instrumental in shaping these efforts. Among them were Supreme Court Judges Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, Justice Rajesh Bindal and Justice Augustine George Masih; Chief Justice Sheel Nagu of the Punjab and Haryana High Court; Justice Lisa Gill of the High Court and Executive Chairperson of HALSA; and senior administrative officials from the State. Their participation underlined the significance of the initiatives in redefining the correctional landscape.

The Haryana State Legal Services Authority simultaneously launched its month-long Anti-Drug Awareness Campaign, conceptualised under the leadership of Justice Lisa Gill. Expressing concern over the rising incidence of drug abuse, Justice Gill stressed the importance of constant sensitisation, community involvement and proactive intervention. The campaign will engage students, teachers, parents and local residents to promote awareness of the harmful psychological and social consequences of substance abuse. It also aims to educate citizens about the legal framework under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act and guide affected individuals towards de-addiction and rehabilitation services through coordinated district-level actions.

These joint initiatives — supported by the Punjab and Haryana High Court and the Haryana Government — reflect a progressive and humane approach to social reform. By integrating skill-building opportunities for inmates and intensifying efforts against drug addiction, the programme aspires to build a society that prioritises rehabilitation, safety and collective well-being. It marks a renewed commitment to preserving dignity within prisons, reducing vulnerability to drug dependency and fostering an empowered, responsible and inclusive community.