The Telangana government, through its Information and Public Relations (I&PR) Department, has announced an extension for the validity of state and district journalists’ bus passes and accreditation cards. This move ensures the uninterrupted mobility and accreditation status of working journalists throughout the state.
Extension of Bus Passes and Accreditation Cards Validity
In an official communication dated September 26, 2024, the Special Commissioner of the Information and Public Relations Department conveyed that the accreditation cards for working journalists in Telangana are set to expire on September 30, 2024. However, in light of ongoing deliberations and the delay in forming a Special Committee to review and update the Telangana Media Accreditation Rules (2016), the government has extended the validity of these accreditation cards and bus passes for an additional three months.
The Importance of Accreditation and Bus Pass Extensions
For working journalists, these accreditation cards serve as an official recognition by the state, allowing them access to critical events, press conferences, and government-related functions. Additionally, state and district bus passes enable journalists to travel across Telangana with ease, ensuring they can report from diverse locations without transportation barriers.
This extension, lasting until December 31, 2024, is a temporary solution while the government continues to review and update the Telangana Media Accreditation Rules. The previous guidelines were last issued in July 2016 under G.O. Ms. No. 239, and the government is actively working on framing new guidelines to streamline the accreditation process.
Avoiding Inconvenience for Working Journalists
One of the key reasons behind the extension is to avoid any potential inconvenience for the media professionals who rely on these passes and accreditation cards for their daily duties. The government is mindful of the critical role that the press plays in keeping the public informed and wants to ensure there is no disruption in the services available to journalists.
The Special Commissioner, M. Hanumantha Rao, emphasized the importance of this extension, urging the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) to extend the validity of the bus passes in parallel with the accreditation cards. This ensures that accredited journalists can continue to access both transport services and official events without interruption.
Upcoming Changes to Media Accreditation Rules
The Telangana government is currently awaiting the constitution of a Special Committee tasked with reviewing and updating the Telangana Media Accreditation Rules from 2016. These rules determine the criteria for accrediting journalists, establishing transparency and uniformity in the process. The revised guidelines are expected to modernize the accreditation process, making it more streamlined and reflective of the evolving media landscape.
However, due to delays in forming this committee and finalizing the new rules, the government has taken proactive steps by extending the current validity to ensure continuity for the state’s media professionals.
The Role of the Media Academy of Telangana
In addition to the I&PR Department’s efforts, the Media Academy of Telangana State plays a crucial role in supporting journalists across the state. The Chairman and Secretary of the Media Academy have been notified of the validity extension to ensure that all media professionals are aware of the change and can continue to carry out their work seamlessly.
Next Steps for Journalists
Journalists across Telangana can continue to use their current accreditation cards and bus passes without the need for immediate renewal until December 31, 2024. This extension provides ample time for the government to finalize the updated accreditation guidelines and ensures that media professionals can continue their work without interruption.
It’s advisable for all journalists to stay informed about further updates from the I&PR Department and the Media Academy of Telangana, as new rules and guidelines may soon be introduced following the formation of the Special Committee.
Conclusion: Government’s Commitment to Media Professionals
The extension of the validity period for journalists’ bus passes and accreditation cards demonstrates the Telangana government’s commitment to ensuring that media professionals can continue their essential work without facing logistical challenges. As the government reviews and updates the accreditation process, the temporary extension provides a much-needed relief for journalists who rely on these tools to carry out their duties effectively.
With the revised Telangana Media Accreditation Rules on the horizon, media professionals can expect more streamlined processes that will better suit the modern media landscape. The government remains proactive in supporting the press, ensuring that journalists can continue their invaluable service to the public.
