Chandigarh: The Punjab Jails Department has released its Year-End Achievement Report, highlighting initiatives that have transformed correctional institutions across the state into centers focused on rehabilitation, stability, and modern security systems. Jails Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said the Mann government is committed to expanding humane initiatives, strengthening security through technology, and promoting vocational training to equip inmates with employable skills.
Key achievements of 2025 include the Punjab Prison Olympics, which encouraged inmates toward sports and physical fitness, and plantation drives that have turned several jail premises into green zones, supporting the “Clean and Green” vision. Bhullar added that jails have been upgraded from clean and orderly facilities to institutions with advanced security infrastructure.
To strengthen jail infrastructure, a new high-security jail is being built at Gorsian Kadarbaksh, Ludhiana, at a cost of ₹100 crore, while the Jail Bhawan headquarters in Mohali is also under construction. Recruitment initiatives have seen 815 warders and 32 matrons hired, with more recruitments in progress for other key positions. Additionally, a new CRPF company has been deployed at Central Jail Bathinda.
Modern security measures worth ₹126 crore are being implemented, including AI-based CCTV, X-ray baggage scanners, body-worn cameras, and high-energy jammers in 13 sensitive jails. Nine petrol pumps are currently operated by inmates, with three more coming soon. Skill development programs in 11 jails aim to train 1,016 inmates in areas such as welding, electrical work, computers, tailoring, and beauty services, helping them gain certified skills for future employment.
