- 21 September, 2025
Pune, September 21, 2025 —The Indian Catholic Press Association (ICPA) concluded its 30th National Convention of Christian Journalists and Annual General Body Meeting (AGBM) on Sunday, calling on journalists and media organisations to defend constitutional freedoms, renew the relevance of print journalism, and respond creatively to the challenges of a rapidly digitising media landscape. Held from 19 to 21 September at Inigo Sadan (PG Block), Jnana Deepa, Pune, the convention adopted the theme “Print Journalism in the Digital Age: Staying Relevant and Navigating Challenges.” Delegates heard a series of talks from media experts and veteran journalists who examined the theme from multiple angles and urged urgent action to protect journalism’s democratic role.
In a strongly worded statement issued at the close of the three-day event, the ICPA warned that ordinary Indians face rising communalism, corruption and repeated assaults on the country’s pluralistic and democratic fabric. The association expressed concern that “truth and justice have taken a backseat” and criticised what it described as the abdication by much of the media of its role as the fourth pillar of democracy. The ICPA noted India’s placement at 151 out of 180 countries in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index as a “clarion call” to defend freedom of speech and expression.
Despite these concerns, the ICPA affirmed the vitality of print journalism. “Print journalism today is alive and vibrant,” the statement said, while acknowledging the importance of digital media and urging print practitioners to find creative, complementary ways to reach and conscientise readers in a highly digitalised world. Delegates were urged to reflect on editorial content and to ensure publications respond to the signs of the times.
As part of the convention, the ICPA released a thematic book compiling contributions from media experts and journalists. Organisers described the volume as a practical, contextual handbook for those seeking to preserve and strengthen the role of print media amid digital transformation.
The convention also observed the nearing close of the Church’s Jubilee Year and paid tribute to Pope Francis, who passed away in April 2025. Delegates recalled the late pontiff’s emphasis on hopeful, compassionate communication. The ICPA quoted from one of his final messages for the 59th World Day of Social Communications (observed 1 June 2025), in which he urged communicators to “always spread hope, even when it is difficult… Try to promote a communication that can heal the wounds of our humanity.”
Concluding the gathering, members of the ICPA pledged to “stay relevant and navigate the challenges of today” by exercising prophetic courage, upholding truth, and communicating the Gospel values of compassion, justice, and peace. The association also committed to using both print and digital means to sustain independent, responsible journalism that serves the common good.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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