Kolkata, Oct 5 (IANS): Twenty inmates from city correctional homes (jails) participated in an art camp at the Alipore Zoological gardens here Friday to spread awareness about wildlife conservation.

The camp, organised by the West Bengal Directorate of Correctional Services, saw 20 inmates, including six women from two correctional homes, participating with 15 other sculptors and painters.

"The art camp will not only help in spreading awareness about wildlife conservation but will also help in changing the perceptions about jail inmates," said Ranvir Kumar, inspector general of correctional services.

"Our aim is to channelise the energy, talent and time of the inmates productively to facilitate their rehabilitation. They have been participating in workshops in correctional homes, but camps like this will inspire them to have a positive outlook in life," state Correctional Administration Minister Shankar Chakrabarty said.

"Initially, I disliked painting but now I feel that it has given me a new lease of life," said Mohammad Rashid Khan, who is serving life term for masterminding the 1993 Bowbazar bomb blast that killed 69 people.

Mantu Das, 70, also serving life term, said painting kept him busy and inspired him to continue his fight to prove his innocence.

"I was framed in a murder case. I have appealed before the high court and hope to prove my innocence," said Das who was convicted in 2005 for murdering a neighbour.