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The prison Frequency Modulation (FM) radio, which was inaugurated in October 2024 as part of prisoner rehabilitation, has successfully completed one year. As part of the prisoners’ rehabilitation programmes, the Prison Department is taking various steps, including conducting yoga classes, providing facilities for studying and conducting sports competitions during Pongal festivals. Last year on October 19, the Salem Central Prison inaugurated the Prison FM radio for the first time in the State, to manage the stress levels of the prisoners. Through this initiative, speakers were installed in all 18 blocks of the prison. Trained prisoners hosted the programmes, which was accessible only inside the prison premises. The prison authorities selected 10 prisoners who used to read books regularly and were trained to host programmes. From Monday to Saturday, programmes organised for the prisoners are as follows: a self-confidence programme at 6.30 a.m., psychological tips - 6.45 a.m., general knowledge - 7 a.m., environment and our responsibility - 7.10 a.m., and life history of achievers - 7.20 a.m. In the evening, entertainment and motivational songs from movies requested by the prisoners will be played from 6.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. From 7.30 p.m, to 8.30 p.m., poetry written by prisoners will be read out, from 8 p.m. to 8.30 p.m., unforgettable moments from the prisoners’ life will be shared. Songs will be played on Sundays from 6.30 a.m. to 8.30 p.m. Salem Prison Superintendent (in-charge) G. Vinoth said that prisoners gave a good response for the FM initiative and eagerly shared their poems and life incidents to be broadcast. The prisoners claimed that songs (motivational songs) played in the FM gives peace and motivation to face life, Mr. Vinoth added.
