Pune: In a progressive move aimed at inmate rehabilitation and positive mental engagement, the Maharashtra Prisons Department has announced the rollout of "Community Radio" centers across all state prisons.

This initiative, which has already shown promising results in select prisons, is set to provide inmates with a valuable connection to the outside world through information and entertainment, fostering a positive change in their outlook.

The "Community Radio" initiative was first introduced on an experimental basis at Yerawada Central Jail on November 11, 2014, with the launch of Radio YCP.

Its success prompted the expansion to other central prisons in Nagpur, Nashik, Kolhapur, Taloja, Thane, Amravati, and Byculla District Jail.

Seeing the positive impact on inmates’ mental health and overall behavior, the state government has now mandated the implementation of this program in all prisons statewide, effective from September 2, 2024.

The initiative aims to reform inmates by providing them with a platform to engage in creative activities, such as broadcasting their talents or sharing their voices through the radio. Inmates are encouraged to participate actively, and their favorite songs are played with their names announced, acknowledging their preferences and personalizing their experience.

This not only reduces stress but also serves as a rehabilitative tool, steering inmates away from criminal behaviors and towards constructive endeavors.

Maharashtra’s "Community Radio" program has been recognized for its role in helping inmates develop skills that could aid their reintegration into society as self-reliant individuals. Observations over the past six to seven years indicate that the initiative has made significant strides in improving inmates' mental well-being and outlook on life, paving the way for their successful rehabilitation.

The implementation of Community Radio in all state prisons is being led under the guidance of Prashant Burde, Additional Director General of Police and Inspector General of Prisons and Correctional Services, Maharashtra State, Pune, with support from Dr. Jalinder Supekar, Special Inspector General of Police (Headquarters), Prisons and Correctional Services, Maharashtra State, Pune.

The prison administration is fully prepared to roll out the initiative across all facilities, marking a new chapter in the state’s approach to inmate rehabilitation and welfare.