Since 2017, Pearl Academy* has been transforming the lives of female inmates at Tihar Jail through its innovative education and skill development programme, created with IPS Sudhir Yadav, former Director-General of Tihar.

In Jail No. 6, a state-of-the-art Fashion Laboratory offers a three-month course that trains inmates in pattern making, garment construction, embroidery, and printing techniques, providing them with industry-level experience.

Female inmates in Tihar jail have often committed crimes due to a lack of appropriate skills to earn a livelihood, deprived backgrounds, physical and sexual abuse or alcohol and drug dependence. The programme was designed to promote economic and social empowerment and give inmates a feeling of self-worth, helping them to rehabilitate back into society and reduce the chance of returning to crime. Due to the collaborative nature of the programme, the women also began to form stronger relationships with each other.

Over 300 women have gained marketable skills through this initiative, with many earning up to ₹20,000 upon release. The daily training provided by Pearl Academy’s faculty, alongside support from ONGC, ensures the programme’s ongoing success, while collaborations with NGOs support the rehabilitation process after inmates’ release. This initiative aligns with India’s ‘Skill India’ Mission, and fosters empowerment, inclusion, and hope, making a lasting impact on the lives of incarcerated women and their reintegration into society.

After spending 15 months in prison, one participant found “comfort and direction” through the programme, with plans to open her own boutique, having upskilled in design and mastered complex embroidery.

*Academic Partner