Jammu‑Kashmir Prison Food Upgrade Introduces Pulses, Milk, and Traditional Dishes

In an effort to boost the dietary standards of inmates, the Jammu and Kashmir prison authority has allocated ₹8.50 crore for a comprehensive food‑purchase programme. The scheme, inaugurated by Police DG (Prisons) Deepak Kumar, will first be implemented at Central Jail Kot Bhalwal and District Jail Jammu.

The revised meal plan lists a variety of dals, fresh dairy, green vegetables, dried fruits, dates and eggs as staple items. Traditional Kashmiri specialties such as hak and nadru are also part of the menu, while meat‑eating prisoners will be provided with mutton on designated days.

The core aim is to supply a nutritionally balanced and diverse diet that addresses the health requirements of the incarcerated population. DG Deepak Kumar highlighted that the new provisions are meant to prevent any form of nutritional deficiency among prisoners.

Jammu‑Kashmir’s correctional network comprises 14 active prisons with a design capacity of 3,629 inmates, yet it currently shelters more than 5,300 prisoners. The department’s responsibilities also include the Institute of Correctional Services in Mishriwala, which conducts basic and refresher training for prison personnel, and a holding centre for temporary detainees.