Pune: The Indian Catholic Press Association (ICPA) concluded its 30th National Convention of Christian Journalists and Annual General Body Meeting (AGBM) in Pune on Sunday with a strong commitment to defending press freedom, revitalising print journalism, and embracing the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation.
The three-day convention, held from September 19 to 21 at Inigo Sadan (PG Block), Jnana Deepa, adopted the theme “Print Journalism in the Digital Age: Staying Relevant and Navigating Challenges.” Journalists, editors, and media professionals from across the country gathered to reflect on the urgent need for responsible journalism in an environment marked by growing censorship, communal tensions, and a rapidly shifting media ecosystem.
In its closing statement, the ICPA voiced deep concern over India’s democratic climate, pointing to a surge in communalism, corruption, and assaults on pluralism. “Truth and justice have taken a backseat,” the association warned, accusing sections of the media of abandoning their watchdog role as the fourth pillar of democracy.
Citing India’s low rank of 151 out of 180 countries in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, the ICPA described the figure as a “clarion call” for journalists to reclaim their mandate of safeguarding freedom of speech and expression. The body also urged Catholic journalists to stand alongside other democratic voices in defending the constitutional rights of all citizens.
Despite the global shift toward digital platforms, the ICPA insisted that print journalism remains “alive and vibrant.” The statement encouraged editors and publishers not to view digitalisation as a threat but as an opportunity to complement print with creative forms of outreach. “Print must remain a conscience-keeper,” delegates were reminded, “by responding to the signs of the times and producing content that is both reflective and transformative.”
To support this goal, the convention launched a thematic volume compiling insights from veteran journalists and media scholars. The book was presented as a practical resource for media professionals seeking to strengthen the role of print within the digital ecosystem.
The gathering also took on a reflective tone as members recalled the nearing conclusion of the Church’s Jubilee Year and paid tribute to Pope Francis, who passed away in April 2025. Delegates highlighted his consistent call for communication rooted in compassion and hope.
Quoting his final message for the 59th World Day of Social Communications, the ICPA recalled: “Always spread hope, even when it is difficult… Try to promote a communication that can heal the wounds of our humanity.” The association noted that the late pontiff’s legacy continues to inspire Catholic journalists worldwide to pursue a communication style marked by truth, dignity, and solidarity.
Concluding the convention, members of the ICPA pledged to remain relevant by embracing both print and digital platforms, guided by Gospel values of compassion, justice, and peace. The final resolution stressed the need for “prophetic courage” in a time when media freedom is under threat, affirming that the association would continue to foster independent and responsible journalism serving the common good.