Indo-American Press Club International Media Conference 2026 Concludes With Strong Call  

The Indo-American Press Club concluded its eleventh Annual International Media Conference, known as IMC 2026, held from October 16 to 18, 2026, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Cincinnati Sharonville in Ohio, with a resounding call to strengthen ethnic media, defend journalistic integrity, and enhance global collaboration among media professionals. Bringing together journalists, public officials, academics, business leaders, authors, and community advocates from North America, India, Europe, and the Middle East, the conference reinforced its position as one of the most influential diaspora media gatherings in North America. For three days, Cincinnati served as a vibrant hub of dialogue addressing the future of journalism, the impact of artificial intelligence, media ethics, diaspora engagement, and the critical role of independent reporting in democratic societies through keynote sessions, panel discussions, workshops, networking events, cultural programs, and an awards gala recognizing distinguished leaders across professional fields.

The conference was formally inaugurated through the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp by former Ohio Assemblyman Neeraj Antani, IAPC Board Chairman Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Founding Chairman Ginsmon Zachariah, Founding President Ajay Ghosh, and members of the IAPC leadership team, symbolizing the organization’s commitment to fostering truth, knowledge, and professional excellence. In his opening remarks, Dr. Satheesh Kathula, an acclaimed oncologist, media, and community leader, emphasized the significance of media collaboration during an era of rapid technological transformation, noting that the gathering fosters meaningful dialogue and responsible journalism. Throughout the conference, speakers repeatedly stressed that journalism remains an indispensable pillar of democracy despite increasing challenges posed by misinformation, political polarization, and evolving digital technologies, while addressing public trust, civic engagement, and the responsibilities of journalists serving diverse communities.

The event featured an impressive roster of global leaders, including United States Congressman Greg Landsman, Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, former Ohio Assemblyman Neeraj Antani, internationally acclaimed investigative journalist Mathew Samuel, celebrated actress and media personality Meera Nair, and acclaimed Bollywood actress Niharika Raizada. Congressman Greg Landsman praised Cincinnati’s tradition of inclusion and the growing contributions of Indian Americans across civic, economic, and professional sectors, underscoring the vital role of independent journalism in public accountability and democratic governance. Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval delivered a keynote address highlighting the importance of dialogue, relationship building, and collaborative leadership, encouraging continued civic engagement. Former Ohio Assemblyman Neeraj Antani focused on the influence and responsibility of ethnic media within public discourse, reminding attendees of their unique role in shaping public opinion and influencing policymakers. Former IAPC Chairman Babu Stephen highlighted the extraordinary achievements of Indian Americans across healthcare, technology, hospitality, academia, and corporate leadership, urging unity and active participation in the American mainstream.

A highly anticipated session of IMC 2026 was the Media Conclave on Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Journalism, moderated by media professional Meera Shankar. Titled The AI Revolution: Empowering Storytellers, Transforming Newsrooms, the session explored the growing role of artificial intelligence in news production, newsroom automation, audience engagement, and ethical reporting, with panelists including Dr. Satheesh Kathula, Muthu Mudaliar, Vinod Tharakan, Roy Ratnavel, Parveen Chopra, and Ajay Ghosh discussing how to balance technological innovation with journalistic credibility. Delegates also examined diaspora storytelling, media independence, digital transformation, and audience trust. A dedicated policy conclave led by veteran investigative journalist Mathew Samuel and moderated by Azad Jayan in Malayalam provided a platform to discuss democracy, media freedom, and diaspora engagement from a regional perspective. Additionally, the conference marked the release of History of Modern Malayalam Literature in America, authored in Malayalam by the late Georg Mannickarottu and translated into English by Ginsmon Zachariah.

A major highlight of IMC 2026 was the Indo-American Press Club Awards Gala, celebrating individuals whose professional accomplishments and community contributions created lasting impacts across healthcare, business, literature, philanthropy, public service, and civic leadership. Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Dr. Meher Medavaram, Dr. V.K. Raju, Roy Ratnavel, Muthu Mudaliar, Dr. T.S. Vineeth Bhatt, and Dr. Subash Razdan. The Women’s Empowerment and Literary Excellence Award was presented to Dr. Sunita Reddy. Community Service Awards were given to Dr. Sunita Polepalli, Jay Bedi, and Pramod Jhaveri. The Most Impactful Book on South Asians Award was presented to Dr. Mubin Syed. The Karmashreshta Award was conferred upon Sajan Varghese, and the Excellence in Leadership Award was presented to Dr. Sujeet Punnam. Investigative journalist Mathew Samuel received a Special Recognition Award for his contributions to investigative journalism. Shan Justus was honored for operational leadership, and founding chairman Ginsmon Zachariah was recognized for organizational stewardship, while Roy Ratnavel delivered an inspiring address reflecting on resilience, leadership, and perseverance.

During the gala, the eleventh International Media Conference Commemorative Souvenir, edited by Dr. Mathew Joys, was formally unveiled by Congressman Greg Landsman, with the first copy presented to Mathew Samuel. IAPC leaders reiterated their commitment to developing future generations of journalists and strengthening professional cooperation worldwide. Founding Chairman Ginsmon Zachariah emphasized the platform’s role in fostering innovative partnerships, while President Meena Chittilappilly stressed that journalists must master artificial intelligence with conscience, defend global media freedom, and uplift peers. Founding President Ajay Ghosh reinforced the vision of mentoring emerging journalists and encouraging international collaboration. Ginsmon Zachariah administered the oath of office to new IAPC members, symbolizing organizational growth. The event was emceed by Azad Jayan, Uma Shankar, and Miley Philip, with Shan Justus coordinating stage operations and community leader Yogi Patel enriching the gathering with a flute recital.

Cultural depth was added to the conference through celebrated performances, including Meera Nair presenting Karu Kare Karmukil, a tribute to Kerala’s natural beauty, rivers, and monsoon rains, and Bollywood actress Niharika Raizada delighting the audience with a musical performance from the film Bombay. The conference concluded with felicitations from community leaders and visiting dignitaries, including Dr. Sam Chacko, Dr. Kala Shahi, James Chacko, Sam T Samuel, and actors Dr. Niharica Raizada and Meera Nair, followed by a formal vote of thanks delivered by Azad Jayan, drawing the historic event to a close with a gala banquet dinner and cultural fellowship.