In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, prisoners lodged in jails across Uttar Pradesh have been employed to stitch masks and sanitisers. The prisoners have already sewn 1,24,500 masks in the past 10 days.

Speaking to India Today TV, director general (DG) prison Anand Kumar said "UP prisons have set a record of sorts by stitching more than 1,24,500 masks in 63 out of the 71 jails in the state over the past 10 days. As a result, all the inmates in our jails, have protective masks and now we are in a position to supply masks to the government, NGOs and the general populace on a cost-price basis. In addition, sanitisers and disinfectants are also being manufactured in some jails across the state."

"The inmates have been imbued with a sense of purpose and service to the nation and have accomplished this herculean task with an indomitable spirit. The work of stitching masks, manufacturing sanitisers and disinfectants will continue till the nation become free from COVID-19 pandemic" said Kumar.

The DG prison also said that for the safety of prisoners, prison premises are being sanitised using disinfectants at regular intervals. Thermal screening of inmates is also being done. Isolation centres and quarantine cells have also been set up for the safety of prisoners and jail staff.

According to him, any prisoner who is suspected of having symptoms associated with Covid-19 will be quarantined for 10 days.

In case a further test is required, the person will be referred to the chief medical officer on the advice of prison doctors.

IndiaToday.in has plenty of useful resources that can help you better understand the coronavirus pandemic and protect yourself. Read our comprehensive guide (with information on how the virus spreads, precautions and symptoms), watch an expert debunk myths, learn about the first human trial of a vaccine and access our dedicated coronavirus outbreak page. Get the latest updates on our live blog.

Watch India Today TV live here. Catch the latest TV debates and video reports here.