State prisons to be equipped with High-Tech surveillance systems
PNS
Ranchi
In a major move to strengthen prison security across the state, the Jharkhand government has approved the installation of advanced surveillance and detection systems in two key correctional facilities. The Home, Prison and Disaster Management Department has sanctioned ₹16.86 crore during the financial year 2026-27 for security upgrades at the newly constructed Sub-Jail in Nagar Untari (Garhwa) and the expanded section of Gumla Central Jail.
The newly built sub-jail in Nagar Untari, Garhwa district, will receive security equipment worth ₹9.39 crore. The project includes the installation of 324 state-of-the-art CCTV cameras to ensure round-the-clock monitoring of the entire prison premises.
To strengthen screening procedures, the jail will also be equipped with an advanced X-ray scanner for thorough inspection of goods entering and leaving the facility. Additionally, two door-frame metal detectors and two hand-held metal detectors will be installed to enhance security checks.
A key feature of the upgrade is the procurement of a Non-Linear Junction Detector (NLJD), a sophisticated device capable of detecting concealed electronic gadgets, including hidden mobile phones, SIM cards and electronic circuits often used for unauthorized communication inside prisons.
The state government has also approved ₹7.47 crore for security enhancement at the expanded section of Gumla Central Jail. Under the project, 207 high-capacity CCTV cameras will be installed to improve surveillance and monitoring across the facility.
The approved budget covers not only the procurement and installation of the equipment but also includes a two-year warranty period. Following the warranty, a comprehensive annual maintenance contract (AMC) for three additional years has been provisioned to ensure uninterrupted functioning of the security infrastructure.
Officials said the initiative is part of the state’s broader effort to modernize prison administration, curb illegal activities inside jails and improve overall security. The deployment of advanced surveillance systems and electronic detection technologies is expected to help authorities prevent the use of contraband mobile phones and strengthen monitoring of inmates and prison operations.
The latest investment reflects the Jharkhand government’s commitment to adopting technology-driven solutions for safer and more secure correctional facilities.
