Akhilesh Reddy is a dynamic media leader, seasoned journalist, and a relentless voice for press freedom in India. Hailing from Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, he is the Managing Director of both Janam News and Sakshi Digital News, and serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Telugu daily Payaninche Suryudu.
With over 16 years of experience in journalism, Akhilesh Reddy has witnessed firsthand the struggles, risks, and challenges faced by grassroots journalists. Holding academic credentials in LLB and Journalism from the prestigious Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, he blends legal understanding with journalistic passion to fight for justice and accountability within the media ecosystem.
Champion for Journalist Rights
Moved by the hardships faced by rural and field journalists, Akhilesh Reddy founded the All India Working Journalists Association (AIWJA) — a national-level NGO and journalists’ union with a mission to protect, empower, and uplift working journalists across the country.
Under his leadership, AIWJA has launched groundbreaking welfare initiatives, including:
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₹2 lakh Accidental Insurance Coverage for every verified member
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50% Concession on School Fees for children of working journalists
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Legal support, training, and emergency aid to journalists in distress
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State-wide awareness campaigns and protests demanding legal recognition, safety, and financial support for journalists
Akhilesh Reddy is not just an editor or administrator — he is a fighter for journalist dignity, leading movements, confronting authorities, and pushing for policy reforms to ensure media workers are respected, protected, and fairly compensated.
Today, his vision continues to inspire thousands of journalists across India, especially in rural and tribal regions where journalism remains both a duty and a danger.