JMA Membership Policy Updates (2025)

Revised Guidelines for Membership Verification & Renewal

The Journalist and Media Association (JMA) has introduced stricter membership verification and renewal processes following decisions taken at the National Executive Meeting in Bangalore. These updates ensure transparency and uphold professional standards. All members must adhere to the revised guidelines.

Key Changes in Membership Policy

Stricter Verification for New & Renewing Members

Enhanced scrutiny of documents for new applicantsand renewals.
Mandatory submission of updated employment proofs.

Reduced Grace Period for Unemployed Journalists

Previously: 3-month extensionfor members transitioning between jobs.
Now:Only 2-month extension

Action Required:Members unemployed beyond 2 months must return their JMA ID card via:

Registered Post(to JMA headquarters) OR
In-person submissionat the nearest JMA office.

Non-compliance may lead to membership termination. 

Eligibility Criteria for JMA Membership 

Full Membership (Working Journalists)

Eligible Professionals:

Print/Electronic/Digital Journalists(employed by recognized news platforms).
Freelancers(must submit published work samples + recommendations).
Editors or Owner of a Print/Electronic/Digital Journalists ( Media representation ).
Minimum Experience: 2-5 years (varies by role).

Non-Eligible Categories 

Social media influencers (YouTube/Facebook creators without media affiliation).
Non-journalists or those with fake credentials.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit:

✔ Proof of Employment (ID card/appointment letter/salary slips).
✔ Recommendation Letters (from senior journalists/JMA members).
✔ Published Work Samples (for freelancers).
✔ Aadhaar Card + Passport-sized photo.

 Fee Structure 

One-Time Registration: ₹1,000
Annual Renewal Fee: ₹600

Application Process

Submit Application(Online/Offline).
Scrutiny by Membership Committee.
Final Approval by Governing Body.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

False information:Immediate rejection/termination.
Code of Conduct violations:Suspension/blacklisting.

All members must comply with the updated rules.