News – Prism Trust

March 21, 2025 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

76th Republic Day celebrations – OH Madurai

On the occasion of the 76th Republic Day on January 26th, PRISM Trust organized a series of sports competitions at the Govt. Observation Home for boys, inaugurated in the presence of the Superintendent. More than sixty students enthusiastically participated in over ten competitions, ensuring that each student took part in at least seven events. The competitions included drawing, painting, handwriting, chess, carrom, and other engaging activities. Winners were selected for first, second, and third places, while all participants received consolation prizes as encouragement. The competitions were judged by a resource person along with the home staff, ensuring fairness and motivation for all. The event saw students actively engaging in every challenge, displaying great energy, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship. These competitions were designed to promote nation building, physical fitness, teamwork, and discipline while incorporating moral values essential for the students’ overall development. Through these activities, they not only enhanced their individual skills but also learned the importance of cooperation, patience, and perseverance. The platform allowed them to explore their talents, build confidence, and develop a healthy competitive spirit. The entire event created a lively and encouraging atmosphere, fostering happiness, unity, and personal growth among the students, making the Republic Day celebration truly meaningful.

January 27, 2025 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

76th Republic Day celebrations – Saidapet Sub Jail

The Republic Day celebration at Sub Jail, Saidapet, Chennai, was a significant occasion aimed at fostering patriotism and promoting rehabilitation among inmates. The event began with the flag hoisting and the National Anthem, followed by a welcome address by Dr. Maheshwar Dayal, IPS, DGP Prisons. Thiru. Ravi Kumar Paul, Senior Advocate and Managing Trustee of PRISM, introduced the event and elaborated on the PATTAM and PARAVAI projects, which focus on legal aid, skill development, and reintegration support for inmates. He emphasized the importance of these initiatives in transforming lives and reducing reoffending. A thought-provoking skit on discrimination was performed by the inmates, powerfully depicting its impact on individuals and society. The performance served as a reminder of the need for equality and inclusivity, reinforcing the values of justice and fairness. While the Republic Day event was a moment of celebration and reflection, various competitions, including drawing, singing, and elocution, had been conducted the previous week to provide inmates with opportunities to express themselves and develop their talents. These competitions focused on themes such as drug awareness, nation building, patriotism, gratitude, and youth empowerment. The winners were recognized during the Republic Day celebrations, with awards presented by Justice S.M. Subramaniam, Justice P.N. Prakash (Retd.), and Dr. Maheshwar Dayal, IPS, DGP Prisons. Justice P.N. Prakash (Retd.) delivered a special address, emphasizing the judiciary’s role in rehabilitation and urging inmates to make productive use of their time in prison. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Thiru. Thanga Vijayakumar, Superintendent, Sub Jail, who acknowledged the contributions of all dignitaries, organizers, and participants. The celebration reinforced the importance of structured rehabilitation programs, education, and cultural activities in fostering positive change and reintegration for inmates.

January 27, 2025 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

76th Republic Day celebrations – POS Vellore

The Republic Day celebration began with a flag hoisting ceremony at 9:30 AM, followed by the national anthem and a speech on the importance of Republic Day and its relevance to democracy and unity. The Republic Day competitions at the Place of Safety Home featured several engaging competitions like speech, debate and drawing aimed at fostering creativity, critical thinking, and patriotism among the residents. The speech competition gave participants the opportunity to express their thoughts on prominent national leaders, with topics such as Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and Subhash Chandra Bose. A debate competition (Pattimandram) was held on the topic “Is the Internet Good or Bad?” Five students participated in teams, presenting arguments that enhanced their critical thinking and discussion skills. In the drawing competition, participants showcased their artistic abilities with themes like the national bird and influential national leaders. To conclude the event, winners from all competitions were presented with books, notebooks, public exam kits, and water paints, encouraging their academic and creative pursuits. The celebration provided a meaningful platform for students to express themselves, build confidence, and embrace the spirit of national pride, making it a memorable occasion for all involved.

January 25, 2025 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

PAATHAI – Training for OH Kellys Staff

On January 25th, 2025, a comprehensive one-day training program was conducted for the operational staff of the Observation Home (OH) as part of the PAATHAI project. The primary objective was to equip staff with a clear understanding of the project’s mission, their role, and effective rehabilitation strategies for children in conflict with the law. The event commenced with an inaugural session attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Mr. Senthil (Regional Probation Officer), Mrs. Glory (Superintendent of the OH), and Mr. Ravi Kumar Paul (Founder of PRISM). They emphasized the importance of collaboration between OH staff and the PAATHAI team, highlighting the need for a structured rehabilitation process that fosters a reformative, rather than punitive approach. The morning sessions featured engaging activities and session focusing on PAATHAI programme model, Understanding the reformative approach by Mr. Immanuel Angelo and juvenile psychology by Prof. D. Beulah Emmanuel provided staff with a deeper understanding of adolescent behaviour, reinforcing the importance of empathy, trust-building, and positive reinforcement in their interactions with children. In the afternoon, a session led by Mrs. Thirumagal encouraged OH staff to actively assess the PAATHAI project’s impact through group discussions and presentations. Participants analyzed the strengths and challenges of the project, provided valuable feedback on rehabilitation, reintegration, and reformation strategies. The last session was on work skills needed to handle juvenile which helped to equip themselves better.

January 3, 2025 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

PAATHAI Inauguration

In collaboration with the Department of Children Welfare and Special Services, Chennai, PAATHAI, a program centered around the rehabilitation and counseling of first time juvenile offenders was inaugurated on 11th December 2024. The inauguration took place at the Department of Children Welfare and Special Services in the esteemed presence of the Tamil Nadu Minister of Social Welfare and Women Empowerment, Mrs. Geetha Jeevan and other dignitaries from the department. PAATHAI stands for Personality Affirming Attitude Transformation Holistic Approach Intervention. The program progresses towards the establishment of systematic reformation, reintegration and rehabilitation of young individuals who find themselves in conflict with the law. First time petty offenders are the focus of the initiative to be able to root out the problem by nipping it at the bud. The support extends beyond the confines of the Observational Home to guide them to facilitate reintegration into the society. Keeping in mind the physical and psychological changes teenagers undergo, PAATHAI comprises child-friendly action plans to facilitate interventions that cater to the needs and development of the juveniles.

January 30, 2024 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

75th Republic Day celebrations

PRISM celebrated the 75th Republic Day at the Observation Home in Kellys and Sub Jail, Saidapet. Quizzes, drawing, slogan writing, and poem competitions were conducted to engage the juveniles and young first-time offenders. Through these activities, we were able to instill a sense of patriotism and emphasize the role of an individual in creating a society with justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. The PRISM team at the Observation Home, Kellys, organized a beautiful program including Silambam, Aerobics, Dance, singing, and speeches by the children. The Observation Home staff were cooperative in organizing the events. The Chief Guest, Mrs. Lakshmi, JJB Principal Magistrate, and Ravi Kumar Paul, Senior Advocate and Managing Trustee of PRISM, delivered a meaningful message to the children and the gathered members. At the Sub Jail, Saidapet, the program began with the flag unfurling, followed by special speeches from various dignitaries and an outstanding cultural performance by the youths. Hon’ble P N Prakash – Retired Justice, Madras High Court, Hon’ble Nazir Ahamed, Member Secretary – TNSLSA, Hon’ble Kothandaraj – Chief Metropolitan Magistrate, R Kanagaraj – DIG HQ, Prisons and Correctional Services, magistrates from various courts, Indhumathi, and Sub-Inspector NPO – Paravai, made the day meaningful. Their speeches inspired the youth in the sub jail. The presence of various donor agencies like DGCFT, CAPCO, Karunai Jyothi Trust, Krupa and ARUWE was encouraging for the work initiated by us to reform young first-time offenders. Prizes for the winners at OH – Kellys and Sub Jail, Saidapet, were sponsored by PRISM, and refreshments for the inmates of the Home and Sub Jail were sponsored by CAPCO.

November 25, 2023 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

Sports Training at Salem

On November 23, 2023, a Sports Training Program was conducted for PATTAM coordinators from all Central Prisons of Tamil Nadu at IGL – Salem. The training program marks a significant milestone in our collective pursuit of excellence. It goes beyond sports, impacting the entirety of life. It encompasses the mental fortitude, emotional resilience, and the holistic well-being of every individual. This training is crucial in empowering coordinators to identify, understand, and address the psychological pressures faced by offenders, using special games and activities. The sessions, mainly focused on the insights, strategies, and tools aimed at enhancing not only athletic performance but also fostering personal development and well-being of the Young Petty First Time offenders. The four sessions were on the Whole Life Coaching (What & Why), Stages of learning through games, Heart of a Coach / Sports trainer and Practical applications. Participants expressed that this training equips them with valuable skills, enhancing their professionalism in the field of sports which is an attention and attraction-seeking event inside the prison. Trainers Mr. Sunil Moses and Mr. Sarath, invited from the Life Sports Academy, led the sessions. Mr. Bharathi Doss, the PATTAM Project Executive in Salem, effectively coordinated the training.

November 9, 2023 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

Health Camp at Coimbatore

PRISM along with KRUPA successfully conducted a general health camp for prisoners at the Central Prison, Coimbatore, in collaboration with Karunya Hospital, Coimbatore. This event took place on November 1, 2023. The medical team consisted of 3 doctors, 1 ECG technician, 1 nursing superintendent, 1 lab technician, 1 social worker, and 2 health assistants. In total, 9 members participated from Karunya Hospital. The camp began with the assembly of male prisoners. First, registration was completed, followed by blood pressure measurements. Then, they underwent blood sugar tests, and finally, doctors diagnosed their conditions and provided prescriptions and medication. ECGs were performed for patients who required them. In the evening, we conducted a health checkup for female prisoners. In total, 135 male prisoners and 35 female prisoners underwent health checkups and benefited from the services. The food and refreshments were provided by the prison department and were homely and delicious. The Jailor, Deputy Jailor, Welfare Officer, Psychologist, and Counsellor from the Central Prison, Coimbatore, also participated and encouraged PRISM to conduct more camps for the welfare of prisoners. Dr. Christy, Psychologist, gave the vote of thanks in which she thanked the medical team, the prison department officials, and the prisoners for making the event successful. The event was coordinated by the PATTAM coordinator at Coimbatore, Mr. Moses, who was thanked by the prison superintendent at the close of the event.

October 19, 2023 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

Training for Social Defence Staff at Chennai, Madurai and Vellore

PRISM received approval from the Social Defence Department to train all the staff members at the Observation Home for Boys in Chennai and Madurai, and the Place of Safety in Vellore. The primary objective of this initiative was to acquaint the staff with the PATTAM program and inculcate the necessary focus for the reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of the boys. This training is designed to motivate the staff to create a positive and conducive environment for these troubled youngsters. The training was conducted as follows: 14th September 2023 at Observation Home, Kellys, Chennai 5th October 2023 at Observation Home, Madurai 6th October 2023 at Place of Safety, Vellore The inauguration and certificate distribution for the participants were attended by key stakeholders, including Ms. Lakshmi, the JJ Board Magistrate for Chennai, and Mr. Raj Kumar JJ Member, and Mr. Sanju, DCPO of Vellore. Mr. Ravi Kumar Paul presided over the training sessions in both Chennai and Vellore. 79 Staff from these three places received training on the topic of “Aspects of Reformation and its Implementation.” A team of experts from PRISM served as trainers and provided training to the staff, covering the concept of reformation and the development of essential workplace skills. Many expressed the desire to have similar training sessions held quarterly or once every six months to enhance their skills and knowledge in their respective fields. They also shared that their understanding of juvenile and adolescent rehabilitation had significantly improved after attending this training. Senior Trainer Emmanuel Angelo at OH, Kellys Certificate distribution at POS Special Guest Mr. Sanju – District Child Protection Officer Participants at Place of Safety, Vellore Ms. Uma Mageshwari, Superintendent – Vellore – Topic Aspects of Reformation. Lawrance, PRISM Trainer Special Address from Ravi Kumar Paul at POS Vellore Senior Trainer, Emmanuel Angelo at Place of Safety, Vellore OH Kellys Staff Ms. Mohanapriya, Psychologist – Topic Juvenile Psychology – Madurai OH Mrs. Lakshmi, Principal Magistrate JJ Board, Kellys during Inauguration of Staff Training Mr. Nirmal, PRISM Trainer at OH, Madurai OH Madurai Staff Dr. Beulah – OH Kellys Training Special Address by Ravi Kumar Paul at OH, Kellys Place of Safety – Group Discussion OH Kellys Staff during Group work presentation

October 19, 2023 prismchennaiindia@gmail.com No Comments

PATTAM featured in Kungumam

The PATTAM program was featured in the popular Tamil weekly magazine, Kungumam. A gist of the article is given below. There is a sub-jail for the young petty first-time offenders at Saidapet, Chennai. Last August, there were 143 inmates in this prison. What a surprise… that number has dropped to just 17 in March this year! You may wonder if all the prisoners escaped by jumping over the wall! No. All thanks to PRISM, a Chennai-based NGO. Ravikumar Paul, the founder of the organization and a Senior Advocate of the Madras High Court, began to speak enthusiastically. Criminals with money can get away. But it is difficult for innocents without effort to get freed. Maybe even if we try for freedom, they will go out and talk in some desperation about what they are going to do. Two-week training camps were created for such innocent inmates in the prison itself. This training program was developed with the help of many psychologists and educators. It’s like group therapy. We gave them 6 steps of support such as individual counseling, group counseling, and teaching them life skills through sports. At first, all the prisoners participated indifferently. But we diligently persisted as even 2 out of 10 is considered a success. On the last day of the program, we get the youngsters to address the class. The success of this training was that all those who raised their faces in the training spoke with dreams about their future. We worked with the judges to reduce the power of remanding a criminal. We said that if an arrest is to be made, it can be done through a case and the court attached to it rather than through the police. This is why the number of young petty first-time offenders at Sub-Jail, Saidapet has decreased compared to last year. We train the police to approach juvenile/young offenders under the auspices of the police under the PARAVAI Project. With this training we guide the released young offenders to avoid further crime in society and the same police will be vigilant. Last year, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister announced support for the implementation of this PARAVAI program across the state. All the credit for this goes not only to the ‘PRISM’ organization but also to the police prison authorities and the judiciary who worked on this project. When all these projects are possible, incidents like the Nanguneri issue can be prevented…” says Ravikumar Paul with confidence.

Archives