Hyderabad: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar described Cherlapalli Jail as a model for prison reforms, praising Telangana’s welfare and rehabilitation initiatives for inmates.
Minister praises Telangana’s reform model
During his visit on Monday, Bandi Sanjay commended DG Prisons Soumya Mishra for transforming the concept of “custody-care-correction” into real action. He said the prison’s model could inspire similar reforms across the country.
The Minister highlighted several welfare schemes, including insurance for inmates, interest-free loans for families, and school fee support for the children of women prisoners. He also appreciated the Department’s focus on rehabilitation through skill training and post-release employment.
Bandi Sanjay inspects prison facilities and inmate industries
The Minister toured various facilities inside Cherlapalli Jail. He visited industries operated by inmates, the cowshed, and the recreation club. He personally fed the cows, named one “Krishna,” and watched prisoners extract honey.
Officials gave a presentation on the jail’s development. Built 25 years ago, Cherlapalli Jail received ₹11.60 crore from the Centre for upgrades, spending ₹11.30 crore so far.
Soumya Mishra leads wide-ranging prison reforms
Since Soumya Mishra took charge as DG, Telangana Prisons Department has introduced video link Mulakhat for families, new skill centres, and daily yoga sessions. Inmates now have access to healthcare profiling, meditation, and PET programs.
The Department also enables prisoners to continue their education and earn degrees. After release, many find jobs at petrol pumps with salaries of at least ₹18,000 a month. Staff welfare programs, including sports and health facilities, have also expanded.
Centre assures full support for Telangana reforms
Bandi Sanjay suggested holding a special fair in Hyderabad to showcase prisoner-made products. He assured full support from the Centre and urged officials from other states to study Telangana’s model.
The Telangana Prisons Department recently won the Skoda Award for innovation in prison reform and welfare.
Visited Charlapally Jail today – this facility is setting a new benchmark in prison reform for the entire country.
• Telangana ranks No.1 in jail inmate welfare – insurance for prisoners and interest-free loans for their families is a powerful step.
• Centre has given ₹11.60… pic.twitter.com/giAlLTFW6W— Bandi Sanjay Kumar (@bandisanjay_bjp) October 13, 2025