Authorities in the district jail in Surat in association with a local diamond manufacturer have initiated a programme to train select inmates in the art of cutting and polishing diamonds so that they can find employment more easily on completion of their term, according to a media report. The jail superintendent has taken this step in association with the directors of Kohinoor Diamonds.

Initially the project is being taken up with eight selected prisoners, each of whom is trained in the art of cutting with diamonds supplied by the company. Two emery wheels have been installed in the jail premises, it was reported, and the training is being conducted by an employee of the firm and some others. At the end of each working day, the diamonds are kept in the safe custody of the jail authorities after inspection by the company representative. Those engaged in the work receive payment on par with employees of a similar level in the company’s own set up, it was reported.

The project is part of a larger programme to develop skills among the inmates so that they find jobs more easily after their release, the jail authorities have said. Other inmates are being trained on powerloom machines also. The response to the programme has been good, the officers confirmed.

Directors of the firm have assured the authorities that they would increase the number of cutting and polishing wheels if the initial results are positive.