Catholic Media Assembly in MP Focuses on Responsible Communication

Dabra, Gwalior, November 16, 2025: The Communication Commission of the Council of Bishops of Madhya Pradesh (CBMP) and SIGNIS MP&CG hosted a two-day regional assembly at the Infant Jesus Shrine in Dabra, drawing nearly 80 participants from Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The event focused on strengthening ethical, responsible, and hope-centred communication in an increasingly digital world.

Bishop Joseph Thykkattil of Gwalior inaugurated the assembly, joined by key leaders in Catholic media, including Fr. Biju Alappat of the CBCI, Fr. Anthony Swamy SVD, Mr. Sumit Dhanraj of SIGNIS India, keynote speaker Fr. Walter D’Souza, and resource person Fr. Dominic Veigas SVD. The programme was coordinated by the Gwalior Diocese’s Communication Office.

A highlight of the gathering was the recognition of two senior media professionals. Mr. Abel Extros from the Diocese of Gwalior and Mr. Alwaris from the Diocese of Indore were honoured with Lifetime Achievement Awards for completing four decades of service in media and communication.

In his opening message, Bishop Thykkattil praised the contribution of media workers and urged them to foster compassion, mercy, and hope in their work. He emphasised the role of communicators as “agents of hope and love” amid widespread misinformation and social tension.

Addressing the theme of the 59th World Communications Day — “Share with gentleness the hope that is in your hearts” — Fr. Walter D’Souza reminded participants that communication must value people above words. He cautioned against using language destructively and stressed the need for communication that uplifts and transforms.

Fr. Dominic Veigas SVD conducted a session on cybersecurity and digital safety, equipping participants with guidance on preventing cyber fraud, staying alert to online threats, and understanding legal norms when working with minors.

Fr. Biju Alappat highlighted the rapid spread of misinformation and urged media personnel to uphold empathy, balance, and integrity in digital storytelling. Later, Fr. Cyril Victor of the CCBI joined online to discuss how digital platforms and algorithms influence users’ behaviour and access to information.

Practical digital training also formed part of the assembly. Led by Fr. Anthony Swamy SVD, the hands-on session introduced participants to AI-based tools including Canva, ChatGPT, Suno, and ElevenLabs. Additional presentations by Mr. Amit of Gwalior Dhwani showcased creative applications like ScripAI and Ideogram. Mr. Sumit Dhanraj encouraged greater youth engagement in SIGNIS India’s media mission.

The assembly concluded with a collective call to promote communication rooted in hope, truth, and compassion. It reaffirmed the shared commitment of Catholic communicators to uphold ethical practices and contribute positively to society.

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