Himachal Pradesh is opening new doors for the talents of its prison inmates, offering a unique platform for products made by convicted and undertrial prisoners to reach a global audience. In a first, the jail administration is setting up an online marketplace where people from India and beyond can buy items created by prisoners. This initiative not only aims to bring international recognition to inmates’ skills but also provides them with a meaningful source of income.
To bring this vision to life, the administration is partnering with major e-commerce platforms to offer a wide variety of goods, including handloom items, bakery products, welding crafts, and dairy items. Soon, consumers will be able to purchase authentic Khadi products and more, all crafted by prisoners, from the convenience of their homes. This move is designed not only to showcase the creative skills of the inmates but also to aid in their rehabilitation by providing them with sustainable livelihood options.
Currently, about 200 male and female inmates in Himachal’s prisons, including the Central Jail in Kanda and Nahan, are involved in producing an array of goods. Their creations range from furniture like chairs, tables, and cupboards to handloom treasures, such as Kullu-design shawls, stoles, jackets, sweaters, woolen socks, Himachali caps, and blankets. The popular ‘Himkara’ brand, established within the prison bakery industry, produces a delightful assortment of chocolates, bread, biscuits, cakes, pastries, and more, sold at Himkara stores.
These efforts fall under the Har Hath Kaam Yojana, launched in 2016-17 to provide employment opportunities to prisoners. Through this scheme, the jail administration has set up various enterprises, including bakeries, tailoring units, welding shops, dairy farming, and laundry services. Managed by the Himkara Unnayan Samiti, these activities are structured to allow prisoners to work in areas aligned with their skills and interests.
Between 2016 and 2024, a total of 4,603 inmates earned combined wages of Rs 10.90 crore. The jail administration’s ventures have generated a turnover of Rs 32.35 crore, with the 2022-23 fiscal year marking the highest turnover at Rs 6.17 crore. In the same year, prisoners earned their highest collective salary, totaling Rs 4.69 crore.
Many of the handloom products crafted by these inmates have earned the prestigious Handloom Mark from the Central Government, underscoring their quality and authenticity. Offered at competitive prices, these items are now being prepared for international sales, further expanding their reach and impact.
Director General of Police, Jail, SR Ojha, emphasized the transformative aim of this initiative. “Prisoners aren’t just confined behind bars; they’re given the chance to learn valuable skills and earn a livelihood, which will benefit them after their release,” he said. The online sales platform, Ojha added, represents a significant step in supporting their journey of reform and reintegration.
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