Mangaluru: Prison Ministry India (PMI), in collaboration with the Skill Development Department, Government of Karnataka, organised a three-day training programme on mushroom cultivation for inmates of Mangaluru District Jail from October 14 to 16. The initiative aimed to equip inmates with practical skills that could support their rehabilitation, self-reliance and reintegration into society after their release.
Panduranga and his team from Kasaragod served as resource persons for the training programme, providing the participants with practical knowledge and guidance in mushroom cultivation. Around 23 inmates participated in the course and gained valuable insights into the techniques and possibilities of mushroom farming as a potential livelihood opportunity.
The valedictory programme was held on October 16, during which certificates were distributed to the inmates who successfully attended the training. Rev. Fr. Stifan Perera, OCD, Spiritual Director of Prison Ministry India, Mangaluru Unit, presided over the occasion in the presence of Jail Superintendent Sharana Basappa, Assistant Superintendent Siddappa Patil, PMI Coordinator Donald Coutinho, Secretary Sr. Jyotsna A.C., Assistant Coordinator Lawrence Crasta, Joint Secretary John Pais, Sr. Lidwin, Gladys Coelho and Prison Counsellor Denis.
Addressing the gathering, Fr. Stifan Perera highlighted the importance of skill development in the reformation and rehabilitation of prisoners. He explained that Prison Ministry India is committed to the release, reformation, rehabilitation, reintegration and restoration of prisoners. “Training programmes such as mushroom cultivation help inmates use their time constructively while in prison. More importantly, the skills they acquire can become a source of livelihood after their release, enabling them to earn an honest living and reintegrate into society with dignity and confidence,” he said.
Jail Superintendent Sharana Basappa appreciated Prison Ministry India for regularly organising such beneficial training programmes for inmates. He encouraged the participants to put their newly acquired knowledge into practice and make the best use of the opportunities provided to them. He also expressed his gratitude to PMI and the resource persons for their valuable contribution towards the welfare and rehabilitation of prisoners.
Lawrence Crasta, Assistant Coordinator of PMI, coordinated the programme.