Odisha Tightens Jail Security, Expands Inmate Welfare at 4th Prison Development Board Meeting

Bhubaneswar: The 4th Prison Development Board meeting in Odisha highlighted a dual focus on strengthening jail security with modern technology and enhancing inmate welfare.

Authorities reported the installation of AI‑powered CCTV systems with video analytics across 20 jails, perimeter fortification with concertina wire, and deployment of drones, body‑worn cameras, and advanced detection devices.

Prison intelligence units have been set up, and strict monitoring of inmate call facilities is being enforced.

On the welfare front, 118 yoga trainers and 61 mental health counsellors are engaged across prisons.

Skill development initiatives trained over 1,600 inmates in 2025, while 96 micro‑industries are now operational inside jails.

Educational opportunities through NIOS, IGNOU, and OSOU have enabled 218 prisoners to pass courses ranging from matriculation to post‑graduation.

Legal reforms include a special drive to file 2,418 appeals and 256 SLPs, alongside efforts to apprehend parole jumpers. Plans for new model prisons in Bhubaneswar, Jajpur, and Bhadrak were also announced.

Prisoner welfare measures such as revised diet costs, provision of night food, safe drinking water, wages, de‑addiction centres, and a mental health institute at Choudwar Jail were emphasised.

The Board reaffirmed its commitment to balancing security modernisation with rehabilitation and reintegration.