Chandigarh: Children of women prisoners in Punjab’s jails will be enrolled in Anganwadi centers to provide them with nutritious meals and primary education. This was expressed by Dr. Baljit Kaur, Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, during her visit to the Faridkot jail.
The Cabinet Minister visited the Modern Central Jail, Faridkot, where she interacted with women prisoners and assessed their basic needs. She emphasized that the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to the welfare of women prisoners and their children. As part of this initiative, children of women prisoners will be enrolled in Anganwadi centers to benefit from the supplementary nutrition program and essential early education.
Dr. Baljit Kaur also inaugurated a sewing center in the jail to empower women prisoners by providing skill development opportunities, enhancing their self-reliance and preparing them for life outside the prison. Additionally, a cultural program was organized in the jail, where women showcased their talent and creativity with enthusiasm.
Reaffirming the Punjab Government’s commitment to ensuring the health and education of children of women prisoners, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that Anganwadi centers play a vital role in their holistic development by providing nutritious food and basic education.
She further highlighted that the Punjab Government is conducting regular camps across the state to raise awareness about health check-ups for women and provide employment opportunities. Efforts are being made to ensure that every woman benefits from these initiatives.
Dr. Baljit Kaur mentioned that such camps were recently organized in Faridkot district, benefiting women with various government-provided facilities. She added that her visit to the jail aimed to evaluate the health conditions of women prisoners, their physical state and the facilities available for their children.
She stressed the importance of including women prisoners in Punjab’s developmental journey and encouraged them to pursue education, secure employment after their release and utilize the facilities provided by the state government for their children.
Dr. Baljit Kaur also appreciated the excellent arrangements made by the jail superintendent for women prisoners and directed that such efforts be continued in the future.
On this occasion, she was accompanied Director of Social Security, Women and Child Development Dr. Shena Aggarwal and SSP Dr. Pragya Jain.