Earlier, we saw how prisons in Kerala started an initiative called the ‘Freedom Food Factory’ which sold items like biryani, chapatis, bakery items, non-veg curries made by prison inmates. This food has been in huge demand ever since because of its excellent quality and low price.
Such rehabilitation programmes have been a huge hit not just for the inmates but also the people. Hence, Thiruvananthapuram is all set to launch a new initiative and get its first inmates-operated men’s beauty parlour which will be providing beauty services at low cost. These inmates who come from Central Prison, Poojapura, will be seen in a beautician’s avatar, reports The New Indian Express.
22 prison inmates have been trained in beauty services. They are expected to work in the parlour in shifts. These 22 inmates had some prior experience in hair cutting, hair dyeing, spa, manicure, pedicure and facial, and hence were given priority.
For the location, the prison authorities spotted an empty building nearby and renovated it for Rs 9 lakhs. The building was then turned into a well-furbished parlour with proper equipment and facilities. A separate section for senior citizens is on the cards where they will be given manicures and foot massages.
The money earned by the parlour will be deposited in a welfare fund for inmates which will then help to start various online services.
“The inmates are very talented and they are being trained by the officers at the prison. After completing their tenure, they are likely to get jobs outside. We also hope to open a women’s beauty parlour soon,” said Transport Commissioner R Sreelekha.
Director-General of Prisons, Rishiraj Singh, is also planning to start a petrol-pumps run by inmates which will be located in Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Kannur and Kozhikode. The construction of 10 new jails is also being planned.
It is great how prison authorities are giving inmates a fresh and respectable start at life!