Hyderabad, February 12:
In a significant development for the journalist fraternity, the Government of Telangana has constituted the State Media Accreditation Committee (SMAC) at the state level through G.O. Rt. No. 229 dated February 12, 2026, for granting accreditation to media persons under the Telangana Media Accreditation Rules, 2025.
Importantly, after nearly ten years, the Telangana Government has officially recognized the Telangana Journalists Association (TJA) by including its representation in the State Media Accreditation Committee. The move is being seen as a major milestone for TJA and its members across the state.
As per the orders issued by the General Administration (I&PR) Department, the Chairman of the Media Academy of Telangana will serve as Chairman of the committee, while the Special Commissioner of the Information and Public Relations Department will act as Co-Chairman.
The committee comprises representatives from various journalist unions and associations, along with members representing print, electronic, photo, video, women, and desk journalists. Senior officials including a PCI member (to be recommended), the Managing Director of TGRTC or nominee, the Chief PRO of South Central Railway or nominee, and senior I&PR officials are also part of the panel.
The State Level Media Accreditation Committee has been entrusted with the responsibility of processing applications of eligible journalists and issuing accreditation cards as per the prescribed guidelines. The Special Commissioner, I&PR, has also been authorized to approve the District Media Accreditation Committees proposed by the respective District Collectors.
Meanwhile, following the inclusion of TJA in the State Accreditation Committee, the Telangana Journalists Association Chairman has announced a small get-together meeting tomorrow at 11:30 AM at Buddha Bhavan, Hyderabad, for TJA members present in the city.
The recognition after a decade has brought renewed enthusiasm among TJA members, who described it as a long-awaited and historic decision.