Goa is set to join a select group of States embrac ing progressive prison reforms with the government grant ing in-principle approval for a semi-open prison at Colvale. The facility, to be constructed within the periphery of the ex isting Modern Jail, promises a shift in focus from mere incar ceration to rehabilitation and skill development. The journey towards this in itiative began last year when a nine-member team, led by Ad ditional Inspector General of Prisons Dr Snehal Naik Goltekar, visited Yerwada Jail in Pune to study the functioning of open and semi-open prisons. The del egation observed first-hand how inmates, nearing the end of their sentences or demonstrating good behaviour, were entrust ed with responsibilities ranging from running industrial units to agricultural activities. Based on these insights, the team submit ted a detailed proposal recom mending the establishment of a semi-open prison in Colvale. “The Goa government has given its in-principle approv al for the semi-open prison, which will be set up within the periphery of the existing Col vale Jail. We are now finalising plans and structures,” Dr Naik Goltekar said, adding that Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had also assured the initiative as part of Budget commitments. While specific activities for the semi-open prison in Goa are still under discussion, ex amples from Yerwada Jail pro vide a glimpse of what could be implemented. There, around 60 inmates run an open-air hall, in dustrial units and vehicle wash ing centres, while another 60 engage in vegetable cultivation for the prison canteen. Dairy farming also forms part of their daily routine, producing 40 li tres of milk used within the facil ity. The canteen primarily serves vegetarian meals and generates an average income of Rs 30,000 35,000 per day, extending food supplies to workers in nearby industrial estates. Eligibility for the semi-open prison in Goa will be restricted to convicts who have demon strated good behaviour, are unlikely to attempt escape and are nearing the end of their sentences. Currently, about 20 prisoners meet the criteria. Plans for the facility include a dormitory, two workshop blocks and an additional dor mitory to accommodate future expansion. The semi-open prison will be spread over 14,000 square metres at an es timated cost of Rs 18.94 crore, and around 14 new posts are expected to be created
Goa approves semi-open prison at Colvale to focus on rehabilitation and skill development
