Profits to the tune of Rs 25 lakh have accrued to the state government through the sale of the fruits of prison labour. The 80 inmates of the Cherlapally open prison, the first of its kind in the country, consisting mostly of life convicts whose good behaviour qualifies them to be moved to this section, have been making themselves useful in activities such as farming, poultry and dairy farming, the last two being the main revenue generators. The open prison, also known as ‘Prisoners’ Agricultural Colony’, is where they produce vegetables and fruits too, the area of cultivation being around 129 acres.
The inmates have been hard at work, taking a great interest in setting up a mango orchard, and also growing amla and custard apple. They also make their own vermicompost and have made that too into a profitable business. “They are paid Rs 50 per day for taking active part in these activities,” said the jail authorities, the idea being to provide them a humane and secure environment. What they produce is also sent to other prisons and sold through an outlet outside the prison premises.
Agricultural labour apart, 45 inmates from the prison are also being sent to ‘open camps’, established on the premises of Indian Immunologicals Limited, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, a public sector organisation engaged in developing a vaccine for foot and mouth disease in animals. “The prisoners are given the necessary training and put into service,” said an official, and are paid Rs 115 per day. It’s a positive contribution these men are making towards the government’s treasury by being gainfully employed, say the jail authorities.