In a remarkable display of rehabilitation and craftsmanship, the Bangladesh Jail Pavilion has been crowned the winner of the general pavilion category at the 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF).

​Beyond the barbed wire and stone walls, a quiet revolution of industry has been brewing.

This year’s fair provided the ultimate stage for that transformation, as products made by inmates from 38 prisons across the country took centre stage, capturing both the judges' accolades and the public's imagination.

The pavilion was more than just a retail space; it was a curated exhibition of human potential.

Featuring a staggering 402 different items, the display ranged from intricate handicrafts to robust furniture, all handcrafted by those serving time.

​The visual appeal and meticulous organisation of the stall did more than just win a trophy—it drove excellent commercial success.

According to Md Jannatul Farhad, Inspector General of Prisons (Development and Media), the pavilion recorded its highest-ever sales figure, totalling Tk 7,02,87,003.

​"The award was conferred in recognition of the attractive display of inmates’ handmade handicrafts, along with the disciplined and well-structured infrastructure management of the pavilion," Farhad said.

The award was presented at the closing ceremony of the fair held on Saturday afternoon, with Adviser to the Ministry of Commerce, Textiles and Jute and the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism Sheikh Bashir Uddin attending as the chief guest.

Additional Inspector General of Prisons Colonel Md Meshbahul Alam Selim received the crest and certificate on behalf of the Bangladesh Jail Pavilion.

Assistant Inspector General of Prisons (Production) AKM Masum, Senior Jail Superintendent of Kashimpur Central Jail Part-2 Al Mamun, and other officials and staff were present at the ceremony.