Made in Jail

September 3, 2011 in Daily Bulletin

The BBC reported on India’s Tihar Prison – a place where thousands of inmates are employed in seven factories around the prison complex. Some of the more interesting aspects of the jail include:

  • The bakery sells its products to the world under the brand name “TJ”
  • Other factories produce clothes, furniture, and recycled paper. “Made in Tihar” products brought in 150 million in 2010. Products are sold through retail stores and the prison’s website. The money is used to fund the prison.
  • Only serious offenders are allowed to work in the factories. A typical worker works eight hours a day, six days a week, and can make up to 55 per week. Their families can access the money.
  • The prison plans to produce a classical album to showcase the talents of the inmates.

Read what the inmates think about the program as well as the prison’s plan for nationwide expansion over here.

Source: BBC News