Hyderabad – The Telangana Government is working to help prison inmates turn their lives around before they finish their sentences, said IT Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu on Sunday.
He spoke at the closing ceremony of the Annual Prisoners’ Sports and Cultural Meet 2025, held at Cherlapally Central Jail. The event was organized by the Prisons Department as part of its ongoing efforts to support prisoner rehabilitation.
Minister Sridhar Babu highlighted that the Telangana Prisons Department has introduced several progressive reforms. These changes aim to meet the modern needs of society and have become a model for other states to follow.
He acknowledged that many prisoners are behind bars due to mistakes—some made knowingly, others unknowingly. To help them rebuild their lives, the government is offering vocational training and skill development programs in different trades.
In addition to job training, inmates now have access to professional mental health counseling. These services are designed to improve their emotional wellbeing during incarceration.
The minister also pointed out that many prison-made products are in high demand. The government plans to continue supporting such initiatives to give inmates a chance to earn and gain confidence.
“Prison is not a life anyone chooses,” he said. “But once a sentence is served, every person deserves a second chance. We want inmates to leave prison with dignity and a fresh start.”
He encouraged inmates to stay motivated and use their time wisely by learning new skills. Those who behave well and show positive changes will receive government support after their release.
Inmates wishing to pursue higher education will also get help from the Prisons Department, following official guidelines.
The event was also attended by MLC Mahender Reddy, Director General of Prisons Soumya Mishra, and other senior officials.
