Various reforms were implemented to improve the condition of convicts, including the construction of a separate block for female prisoners in 1904.

The post of Inspector General (IG) of Prisons was created in 1953, and subsequent regional setups were established in Kozhikode and Thrissur in 1981.

Jails are typically smaller facilities located in district or sub-district headquarters, and they primarily house individuals who are awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences, usually less than two years.

Prisons, on the other hand, are larger correctional institutions that house individuals convicted of serious offenses and serve longer-term sentences.

Sub-jails are specialized facilities intended for confining individuals who have been sentenced to undergo imprisonment for a period of up to one month, as well as for housing remand or under trial prisoners.

They are typically located in district or sub-district headquarters and provide temporary detention for individuals awaiting trial or serving brief sentences.

District Jails are meant for confining persons sentenced to undergo imprisonment up to 6 months besides Remand / Under Trial prisoners.

A Borstal School, located in Thrikkakkara, Ernakulam, serves as a residential facility specifically designed to accommodate individuals aged 18 to 21 who have been convicted of criminal offenses during their adolescent years.

These facilities are designed to accommodate well-behaved convicted prisoners who demonstrate a strong sense of self-discipline and social responsibility.

These Open Prison and Correctional Homes aim to provide a rehabilitative environment for inmates who have demonstrated positive behavioral traits and a commitment to personal growth.

By allowing a certain degree of freedom and independence, while still ensuring the maintenance of security measures, these institutions seek to foster the reintegration of prisoners into society upon their release.