The Himachal Pradesh state department of prisons and correctional services has introduced a new reform initiative called 'Akshar Se Atmabodh,' which translates to 'remission by reading.' Launched on April 28 at the Model Central Jail in Kanda by the director general of prisons and correctional services, Abhishek Trivedi, the programme aims to promote positive behavioral change among inmates through reading. Following its successful introduction at Kanda, the programme was also initiated at the district jail in Solan on May 21 and is set to expand to other jails across the state. Under this initiative, inmates will have access to a range of books, including motivational literature, biographies, spiritual texts, and materials focused on personality development. After reading, prisoners are required to submit a brief summary detailing their learnings from the books. This process not only encourages reading but also allows eligible inmates to earn remission in their sentences based on their engagement and understanding of the material. The overarching goal of 'Akshar Se Atmabodh' is to help prisoners reintegrate into society as responsible and self-reliant citizens.