Policy seeks bank loans for ex-convicts to aid rehabilitation

Visakhapatnam: Officials from the department of prisons and correctional services have called for a national policy enabling banks to grant loans to ex-convicts after their release, helping them become self-reliant and support their families. Speaking at the inaugural session of the two-day 9th National Conference of Correctional Administrators in Vizag on Wednesday, they stressed that such financial support could prevent ex-prisoners from returning to crime.Union minister of state for home Bandi Sanjay Kumar inaugurated the conference, themed on humane and reformative correctional administration in Amrit Kaal. Organised by the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) and state prisons and correctional services, the event brought together administrators to discuss best practices, policy gaps, and innovations in prison management.Officials noted that ex-convicts often face stigma and legal barriers in securing employment. A structured loan programme — ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh — implemented nationwide could help them reintegrate into society. While some banks in select states have extended such support, the initiative needs uniform adoption across the country, they added.The minister highlighted that although prisons fall under state jurisdiction, the Union govt has consistently provided digital, technological, and financial assistance to modernise prison administration. He cited allocations under the Poor Prisoners' Assistance Scheme (₹20 crore annually from 2023-24 to 2025-26), the Prison Modernisation Project (₹950 crore), and security infrastructure (₹161 crore until 2024-25, with ₹114.5 crore in 2025-26).He emphasised that the conference must address vulnerable inmates, ensure inclusive and safe care, and develop strategies for effective implementation of model prison standards, post-release rehabilitation, and community integration.