In India, the management and administration of prisons is the responsibility of the State Governments, governed by the Prisons Act of 1894 and respective state prison manuals. However, to reduce overcrowding in jails, the Government of India initiated a Non-Plan Scheme called “Modernization of Prisons” in 2002-03. This scheme, implemented across 27 states, aimed to upgrade prison infrastructure and improve inmate living conditions.
Scheme Components and Funding
The five-year scheme, launched in 2002-03, had an initial outlay of Rs 1800 crore, shared between the Central and State Governments in a 75:25 ratio. The primary components of the scheme were:
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Construction of new prisons to reduce overcrowding.
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Repair and renovation of existing prisons and construction of additional barracks.
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Improvement of sanitation and water supply systems.
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Creation of better living accommodation for prison personnel.
Progress and Expansion
The scheme was extended for two years without additional funding, concluding on March 31, 2009. According to a report ending September 2011, the State Governments had constructed:
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119 new jails.
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1,572 additional barracks within existing prisons.
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8,568 staff quarters for prison personnel.
Most of the planned water and sanitation infrastructure work had been completed, and State Governments have used 98.38% of the allocated funds.
Monitoring and Key Issues
Active monitoring of the scheme’s progress is conducted through regular review meetings. A meeting held on September 16, 2011, under the Chairmanship of AS(CS), with all States and Union Territories, discussed several critical points, including:
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The infrastructural growth of jails and the issues of overcrowding.
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Financial and physical progress made in the first phase of the scheme.
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Compliance with advisories issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), particularly concerning women prisoners and their children, overcrowding, and prison security.
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Adverse media reports regarding the condition of certain state jails
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Identification of areas where the 13th Finance Commission has allocated funds for prison upgrades.
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Identification of components to be included in the second phase of the scheme, as part of the 12th Five Year Plan.
Financial Overview
The provided data indicates that the Ministry has released significant amounts to various State Governments. For example, states like Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh have received substantial funding. A detailed list of fund allocation is included to showcase state wise funding for the scheme.
Conclusion
The Modernisation of Prisons scheme represents a significant effort by the Indian government to improve prison infrastructure and inmate living conditions across the country. While the scheme has achieved considerable progress in reducing overcrowding, improving basic amenities and building better facilities, regular monitoring and identification of priority areas for future interventions are essential. This commitment is crucial in ensuring dignified and humane conditions for all incarcerated individuals. Continued evaluation and strategic improvements are vital for achieving effective prison management and rehabilitation in India.