Security / Odisha Prisons to Get AI Cameras to Prevent Escapes

Bhubaneswar, Jul 21: Odisha is set to strengthen prison security with the installation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) cameras across all jails in the state. Jail DG Susanta Nath announced the initiative following the fourth Prison Development Board meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary.

According to officials, AI cameras have already been installed in 20 prisons, and the system has proven effective in preventing escapes. Whenever inmates approach the prison boundary walls, alarms are triggered, making it nearly impossible for prisoners to flee. Since October, no escape incidents have been reported.

The AI cameras will also be deployed inside prison premises to monitor gatherings and prevent disturbances. Alerts will be generated if multiple inmates assemble in one place, helping authorities maintain order. The government has decided to allocate additional funds to expand this technology across all 86 prisons in the state.

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In addition to surveillance, the meeting discussed broader prison reforms. Proposals were approved to establish open-air prisons in seven circle jails — Cuttack (Choudwar), Balasore, Sambalpur, Brahmapur, Baripada, Koraput, and Phulbani. These facilities aim to rehabilitate inmates by providing more freedom under controlled conditions.

The board also reviewed measures to improve inmate welfare. Currently, 118 yoga trainers and 61 mental health counsellors have been appointed to support prisoners’ physical and psychological well-being.

Skill development programmes have trained 1,636 inmates, while 96 small-scale industries have been set up to provide employment opportunities inside prisons.

Unused jail buildings in places like Sohela, Kashipur, and Lakshmipur will be repurposed as skill development centres, ensuring infrastructure is utilized effectively.

With technology and welfare programs working hand in hand, Odisha’s prison system is poised for significant transformation.