78 Inmates Clear SSC Through NIOS

Hyderabad:For the first time, 78 inmates who cleared SSC through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) were felicitated by the Telangana Prisons Department on Wednesday.

Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services Dr Soumya Mishra said the initiative was part of ongoing efforts to rehabilitate inmates through education. An MoU with NIOS enabled prisoners to pursue secondary education. Of 108 inmates enrolled from Cherlapalli, Nizamabad and the Special Prison for Women, Hyderabad, 78 passed after a year of structured preparation with regular classes, mock tests and pre-board exams.

Subjects were chosen for ease of learning and practical utility, including Data Entry Operator skills. Certificates were distributed to successful candidates, with Mishra describing the achievement as a milestone in rehabilitation. She praised their perseverance and urged them to use education to build dignified futures.

Several inmates shared personal experiences, saying lack of education had affected their confidence and respect in society. One expressed determination to study law and provide free legal aid to fellow inmates, while another regretted missing education in childhood.

Mishra thanked NIOS officials, including Parampreet Singh and Dr Praveen Chauhan, for their support. She announced director general’s remission for all successful candidates as an incentive. Encouraged by the results, the department will motivate inmates to pursue Senior Secondary (10+2) under NIOS, with 47 already enrolled. Graduates will also be eligible for undergraduate programmes through Dr B.R. Ambedkar Open University and ITI courses at Cherlapalli prison.

The event was attended by senior prison officials, NIOS representatives, teachers and staff.

Pass‑out inmates, prison‑wise:

· Central Prison, Cherlapalli — 56

· Central Prison, Nizamabad — 15

· Special Prison for Women, Hyderabad — 7