Minister for Energy Resources and Law C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar announced on Friday that, to reduce overcrowding at the Puzhal Central Prison, a new district jail complex will be established in Tiruvallur district at a cost of ₹48.76 crore to accommodate 500 prisoners.

Making announcements for the Prisons and Correctional Services Department in the Assembly, Mr. Kumar said an integrated mental health centre would be established at a cost of ₹3.63 crore at Vellore Central Prison. To give importance to the welfare and development of prisoners and enhance their employability skills, an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) would be established at Chennai Central Prison–I at a cost of ₹8 crore, he said.

He also said a sum of ₹21 crore has been allocated to renovate and upgrade kitchens in prisons, while 400 artificial intelligence-based CCTV cameras would be installed in nine Central Prisons and five Special Prisons for Women at a cost of ₹5.5 crore. A total of 45 industrial laundry machines would be procured at a cost of ₹6.5 crore.

He also announced the establishment of de-addiction centres in seven district jails at a cost of ₹65 lakh, the creation of a dog squad for the high-security prison in Tiruchi at a cost of ₹1.64 crore, and the provision of special food to prisoners on Tamil Nadu Day (July 18) at a cost of ₹25 lakh.

Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Ramesh, while making announcements for the Special Programme Implementation Department, said under the Vetri Skill Development initiative, training would be provided in industrial, fire and occupational safety, and health, and international certifications would be given.

Students who secure high marks and undergo training under the scheme would be provided industry-oriented certification courses in areas such as project management professional, tunnel construction technology and industrial robotics. The State government, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, would provide special skill training to college students, he added.

Published - August 21, 2026 07:25 pm IST