In a bid to foster behavioral change among juvenile offenders and rescued children, government-run observation homes in Hyderabad have implemented a sports-centric approach. The juvenile home provide offenders and rescued children opportunities to excel in sports.






In Hyderabad, a total of 200 children across five homes are receiving training in sports such as archery, basketball, volleyball, handball, chess, and carrom. Several teenagers among them have participated in tournaments at both state and national levels, as reported by Times of India.






Among them, a 16-year-old Ahmed, an archer, is representing Telangana at the national level.


Director, Correctional Services, Department of Juvenile Welfare and Correctional Services, Gopi Kumar said, "To bring behavioural change among the children, we wanted to put in efforts for diversion of mindest...We are trying to build teamwork & confidence-building measures through sports. The Archery programme has been very successful...We aim to bring change in their mindset and attitude towards life..."






 


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The program includes rigorous training sessions, with children dedicating at least three hours daily to activities including basketball and archery. Hema Latha, an archery coach, highlighted the transformation she has witnessed to TOI: "Initially, these children were withdrawn and prone to conflicts. However, through sports training, they have become disciplined, friendlier, and calmer."


Beyond skill development, the coaches are nurturing team spirit and preparing the children for competitive tournaments, promoting holistic growth and social integration.


Apart from this, children have also decided on photography, coding and 3D printing in order to build self-esteem and fight against loneliness.