Hyderabad, 18 February 2025, (SIGNIS India). The SIGNIS India National Assembly, a gathering of Catholic media professionals, commenced at the Montfort Social Institute (MSI) in Hyderabad, focusing on the evolving landscape of human communication in the digital age. Over the course of the event, experts deliberated on the benefits and challenges posed by digital technology, particularly in the context of communication, women empowerment, and artificial intelligence (AI).
The assembly opened with a concelebrated Holy Mass led by H.E. Cardinal Anthony Poola and Most Rev. Jayarao Polimera. During the inaugural session, distinguished media professionals from twelve regions of SIGNIS India were honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their contributions to the Church through media.
One of the key discussions centered on the challenges of human communication in the digital era. Dr. Ravi Kumar, Head of the Mass Communication Department at St. Francis College, highlighted the impact of digital consumption on human interactions. He pointed out how social media, driven by entertainment, has diminished meaningful dialogue, leading to a decline in emotional depth and a surge in issues like misinformation, privacy breaches, and mental health concerns. Dr. Kumar advocated fostering digital empathy, respect, and responsible online engagement to counter these challenges.
A panel discussion focused on digital technology as a double-edged sword for women’s empowerment. Dr. Elsita, an expert on gender and technology, acknowledged that digital platforms have provided women with opportunities for independence and financial stability. However, she also emphasized the barriers women face, including the digital divide, cybersecurity risks, and social media misuse. She noted that only one-third of women in India have access to mobile phones, and even fewer have access to the internet, particularly in rural areas. The need for inclusive digital policies and responsible technology use to empower women while safeguarding their privacy was underscored.
The impact of AI on human decision-making and ethics was another central theme at the assembly. Media expert Jenith Sekar cautioned against allowing AI to replace human discernment and compassion. Citing Pope Francis’s call for ethical AI usage, Sekar stressed the importance of maintaining a balance between technological advancements and human wisdom. He warned against the risks of surveillance, data breaches, and the opaque nature of AI decision-making, urging for greater transparency and accountability in AI governance. His talk resonated with the audience, inspiring a renewed commitment to ethical technology use.
Expanding on AI’s role in the Church, Fr. Jackson Louis from the Dharmapuri diocese explored its applications in pastoral ministry. He explained how AI could support evangelization, faith formation, and parish administration while maintaining human-centered engagement. He encouraged clergy and laypeople to harness AI responsibly, ensuring its use aligns with ethical principles and the Church’s mission of compassion and service.
The SIGNIS India Assembly provided an insightful platform for examining the intersection of digital technology, AI, and human communication. While acknowledging the benefits of technological progress, speakers emphasized the need for ethical considerations, inclusivity, and empathy to ensure that digital advancements serve humanity in a meaningful and responsible manner.