August 20, 2024, marked a transformative day for the Mangalore District Jail with the launch of two significant projects aimed at enhancing the welfare and future prospects of reformed prisoners. These initiatives underscore the prison’s role in rehabilitation, highlighting efforts to prepare inmates for a better life after release.
In collaboration with St. Aloysius University Mangaluru and the District Legal Services Authority, the prison inaugurated a Diploma program in “Herbal Medicines and Disease Prevention” and a “Sasi Marata Kendera” (Plant Sales Centre). The projects were launched by Deputy Commissioner Mr. Mullai Muhilan MP, with dignitaries including Principal District and Sessions Judge Mr. Ravindra M Joshi and District Legal Services Authority’s Member Secretary Mrs. Shoba B.G. in attendance.
These initiatives build on previous efforts, such as a 120-day training course on “Integrated Agriculture and Organic Farming Methods” conducted from October 2023 to January 2024. The convocation for this course and a subsequent medical camp further emphasized the commitment to inmate rehabilitation.
The success of these programs is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the prison authorities, led by Superintendent Mr. Obaleshappa, and St. Aloysius University, with key contributions from Vice Chancellor Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ and Course Coordinator Prof. Edmund Frank. The event also saw the release of a book on herbal medicine, authored by Prof. Frank, aimed at empowering inmates with practical knowledge.
These efforts reflect the broader societal responsibility to rehabilitate and reintegrate offenders, preparing them for productive lives post-release.
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