Bihar Prisons Department Proposes Major Upgrades for Inmate Welfare and Sanitation
The Prisons and Correctional Services Department of Bihar has submitted a comprehensive proposal aimed at significantly improving living conditions and sanitation standards across the state's correctional facilities. The initiative focuses on two key areas: enhancing mental well-being through entertainment and information access, and bolstering hygiene through advanced cleaning technology.
Color Televisions to Promote Mental Well-Being and Engagement
As part of a broader state-level plan, the department has proposed installing color television sets in 49 prisons throughout Bihar. This ambitious project, sanctioned by the home department with an allocation exceeding Rs 3.26 crore, aims to purchase a total of 681 television sets with screen sizes ranging from 32 inches to 55 inches.
The primary objective is to keep inmates constructively engaged, reduce mental stress, and connect them with news and educational programming. Officials believe that providing access to information on national and international developments will foster a more reformative and positive prison environment.
"The initiative is designed to promote inmates' mental well-being and constructive engagement," stated departmental sources. "Televisions will be installed in all prisoner wards, with the exception of high-security units, to ensure widespread access."
Implementation Plan and Procurement Process
Once the proposal receives formal approval, the procurement and installation process will commence. The equipment will be purchased transparently through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, ensuring accountability and efficiency.
Under the jurisdiction of Buxar Central Jail, the following facilities are slated to receive televisions and other required equipment:
- Divisional jails in Ara, Sasaram, Bhabua, and Bikramganj
- Women's divisional jail
- Open jail attached to Buxar Central Jail
Currently, Buxar Central Jail houses 1,080 inmates against a sanctioned capacity of 1,597 prisoners. The jail administration has prepared a detailed list of requirements and submitted it to the department for review and approval.
High-Jet Pressure Cleaning Machines to Enhance Sanitation
In a parallel effort to improve hygiene standards, the department is preparing to procure high-jet pressure cleaning machines. These advanced machines will enable effective and thorough cleaning of barracks, toilets, and other areas within the prison complex.
Officials anticipate that this move will significantly elevate sanitation levels, positively impacting the overall health and well-being of inmates. The integration of modern cleaning technology is expected to create a cleaner, safer, and more hygienic environment across Bihar's correctional facilities.
The combined initiatives represent a proactive approach by the Bihar Prisons and Correctional Services Department to address both the psychological and physical aspects of inmate welfare, aiming to create a more rehabilitative and humane prison system.
