Bhubaneswar: The state prisons directorate has rolled out a series of measures to tighten jail security with the establishment of dedicated prison intelligence units and engagement of convicts in internal security duties emerging as the most significant reforms, the govt said on Tuesday. These initiatives were reviewed at the meeting of the prison development board (PDB) held here on Tuesday under the chairmanship of chief secretary Anu Garg.Jail officials said the intelligence units will function inside jails to monitor threats, gather information, and prevent organised crime networks from operating behind bars. “Trusted convict prisoners are being entrusted with internal security responsibilities to strengthen vigilance while also instilling discipline and responsibility among inmates,” a senior jail official said.The meeting highlighted several other steps taken over the past year to augment prison security. These include installation of AI‑enabled CCTV systems with video analytics in 20 jails, raising perimeter walls with concertina wire at important prisons, and deployment of modern gadgets such as drones, body‑worn cameras, handheld and doorframe metal detectors, and mobile phone detection devices.“Surprise checks by senior prison officers, district police, and intelligence teams have been intensified, while stringent disciplinary action has been mandated against lapses,” the prisons official said.According to the chief secretary’s office, the PDB also reviewed initiatives to improve inmate welfare and rehabilitation. Dedicated yoga trainers and mental health counselors have been introduced across jails, while 96 micro‑industries have been set up to engage prisoners in productive work.“In 2025 alone, 1,636 inmates received vocational training, and 218 prisoners cleared academic courses ranging from matriculation to post graduation. Prison products are being standardised and branded, while medicinal plantations have been launched at Jamujhari open air jail,” Garg’s office said.The PBD also discussed infrastructure expansion, including construction of new model prisons in Bhubaneswar, Jajpur, and Bhadrak, and welfare measures such as improved diet, night food, safe drinking water, wages, and de‑addiction centers. Plans are underway to establish a dedicated mental health institute at Choudwar circle jail in Cuttack.“These reforms are aimed at strengthening prison security while ensuring humane conditions and preparing inmates for reintegration into society,” the prison official said.
