Telangana prisons recorded a significant increase in inmate admissions in 2025, with total admissions rising by 11.8% compared to the previous year, according to data released by the Telangana Prisons Department.
During 2025, 42,566 prisoners were admitted across various prisons in the state, up from 38,079 admissions in 2024. Officials attributed the increase mainly to a sharp rise in cybercrime related arrests, along with higher numbers of drunk driving and narcotics cases.
Of the total admissions, 36,627 were undertrial prisoners, while 5,856 were convicted prisoners, marking a steep rise in convictions compared to the previous year. The data shows that men formed the majority of inmates admitted during the year.
Cybercrime arrests saw one of the sharpest increases, rising by over 130% in 2025. Officials said improved detection, specialised cybercrime units, and increased reporting contributed to the surge. Drunk driving arrests also rose sharply, with 2,833 cases, reflecting intensified enforcement during festivals and night patrols.
Cases registered under the NDPS Act accounted for 7,040 inmates, while POCSO Act related admissions stood at 4,176. Arrests in murder cases also increased by around 18%, indicating a rise in serious offences.
The report noted a decline in the number of foreign nationals admitted to Telangana prisons, dropping to 74 in 2025 from 107 in 2024.
Demographic data revealed that the 18 – 30 age group accounted for the largest share of inmates, with 19,413 prisoners, highlighting growing involvement of young adults in criminal cases. A majority of inmates over 40,000 were first time offenders, while repeat offenders formed a smaller proportion.
Alongside rising admissions, the Prisons Department highlighted its focus on rehabilitation and reform. More than 23,000 inmates were made literate under prison education programmes, while several prisoners completed graduation courses through study centres inside jails. Thousands of inmates also received vocational training in trades, agriculture, and prison industries.
Mental health and counselling services were expanded, with psychological support and cognitive behavioural therapy provided to hundreds of inmates, including specialised programmes for women prisoners.
Officials said the data reflects both increased law enforcement activity and a growing need for preventive measures, digital awareness, and rehabilitation initiatives to address emerging crime trends in the state.
