Telangana prisons are introducing an open education program for inmates

Education Ministry Principal Secretary Yogita Rana in the presence of Directorate General of Prisons and Correctional Services Soumya Mishra and other senior officials. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Eighty-five inmates have expressed their interest to study in Senior High School (SSC) and Intermediate courses under a new open education program launched by the Telangana Prisons Department in collaboration with the Telangana Open School Society (TOSS).

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Out of 85 inmates, 70 have expressed willingness to enroll in SSC and 15 in intermediate courses for the current academic year.

The program was inaugurated by Principal Secretary, Ministry of Education Yogita Rana in the presence of Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services Soumya Mishra and other senior officials. It will enable prisoners to renew their education through TOSS with study materials, academic support and regular classes on Sundays and second Saturdays. Classes may also take place on other days depending on the requirements of the Prison Department.

There is no upper age limit for admission. Prisoners who complete secondary education will also be eligible for higher education if prescribed admission requirements are met.

Ms. Rana announced a relief of ₹1,250 on the course fees for inmates and said that special TOSS centers would be set up in jails to facilitate the program and provide academic support. It also secured support for the establishment of libraries in prisons to promote reading and self-learning.

She further said that children of prisoners who have difficulty continuing their education could submit a statement to her through the Directorate General of Prison Services, after which efforts would be made to provide educational assistance. Addressing the rally, Rana said education could help inmates build self-confidence and self-esteem and prepare for a better future. She urged the inmates to take advantage of the opportunity to continue their studies.

Ms Mishra said the ministry’s approach goes beyond detention and security, with a focus on corrections, rehabilitation, education and skill development. She says education is an important part of trying to help prisoners rebuild their lives and return to society as responsible citizens. TOSS Director K. Lingaiah assured the jail department of academic support and said his staff would be available to help jail authorities in conducting classes.

Information brochures detailing the program and the educational opportunities available to inmates were released at the inauguration.

Published – 07 Nov 2026 15:59 IST