Hyderabad: Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy on Thursday announced a major journalist accreditation expansion in Telangana and extended expiring bus passes by one month, till May 31, 2026.
He made the announcement while distributing new accreditation cards at a programme organised by the Information Department. He said the government aimed to issue accreditation cards to every eligible journalist in the state.
The Minister said the journalist accreditation expansion would help extend healthcare and welfare benefits to media professionals. He added that the initiative followed the vision of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.
Journalist accreditation expansion widens eligibility
Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy said the government reviewed best practices across the country before issuing new cards. Therefore, the process took time.
He noted that the previous government had scope to issue 32,500 accreditations but limited them to 23,352. In contrast, the current journalist accreditation expansion increased eligibility to over 46,000 journalists. So far, authorities have approved around 2,800 cards.
The Minister said officials amended Government Orders based on suggestions from journalist associations. He added that authorities would not hesitate to issue cards to all eligible applicants.
District Collectors have been directed to distribute accreditation cards across districts on May 1. Journalists must submit applications by May 10, which is the cut-off date. Authorities will process all applications received within this period.
Journalist accreditation expansion linked to welfare plans
The Minister said the government would design a structured welfare plan after finalising the number of accredited journalists. This plan will include healthcare and other benefits.
He clarified that accreditation would remain a continuous process. Journalists can retain eligibility even if they change organisations. Therefore, he asked media professionals not to worry.
Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy said the government aimed to set a national benchmark in journalist welfare. He added that consultations with media associations would take place soon.
He also announced a 30-day extension for bus passes set to expire on April 30. This decision aims to avoid inconvenience to journalists.
The Minister distributed accreditation cards to several journalists during the event. Media Academy Chairman K. Srinivasa Reddy, Information Department Special Commissioner G. Mukunda Reddy, and other officials attended the programme.