Lucknow: On the occasion of the birth anniversaries of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, a special event was organized at Lucknow District Jail to honor their legacies. The jail administration and prison personnel paid floral tributes to the pictures of both great leaders, offering emotional homage to their memory. The primary objective of the program was to inspire the prisoners with the principles and ideals of these two towering figures.
Prisoners Engage in Cleanliness-Themed Essay Competition
In line with Mahatma Gandhi’s advocacy for cleanliness, the jail administration organized an essay competition on the theme of cleanliness for the inmates. The prisoners participated with enthusiasm, showcasing their thoughts and reflections on the subject. The competition was aimed at encouraging the inmates to embrace the values of hygiene and responsibility, in line with Gandhiji’s ideals.
Support from Social Organizations
Several social organizations, including the Inner Wheel Club, Lucknow Farmers Market, FICCI FLO, Lions Club, and the Being Women Foundation, actively participated in the event. Women members from these organizations distributed clothes and toys to the women inmates and their young children living with them. Additionally, the women prisoners were motivated towards self-reliance and empowerment, with assurances of support from these organizations.
Environmental Awareness Through Tree Plantation
For male prisoners, a tree plantation drive was organized to raise awareness about environmental protection. The prisoners were trained in sapling preparation, with the aim of equipping them with skills to contribute to environmental conservation after their release. This initiative emphasized the importance of nature preservation and instilled a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

Gandhiji’s Teachings Highlighted
The program also highlighted the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, particularly his principle of non-violence. The inmates were encouraged to reflect on Gandhiji’s message and embrace reform in their own lives. The event was designed to inspire a spirit of self-reflection, aiming to prepare prisoners to positively contribute to society after their release by adhering to Gandhiji’s path of peace and moral integrity.
Notable Attendees
The event saw the participation of several prominent figures from the jail administration, including Jail Superintendent Brijendra Singh, Jailer Ritwik Priyadarshi, Surendra Mohan Singh, Sunil Dutt Mishra, Deputy Jailer Ashutosh Mishra, Virendra Vikram Singh, Ajay Kulwant, and Aarti Patel. Their involvement underscored the importance of the occasion and the jail administration’s commitment to fostering rehabilitation among inmates.
This special event not only honored the birth anniversaries of two national leaders but also served as a meaningful platform for reform and empowerment within the prison system, paving the way for positive change in the lives of the inmates.