Paris, June 19: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday outlined India’s vision for a people first digital future, asserting that technology can drive meaningful progress only when it is accessible to everyone. Addressing the prestigious VivaTech 2026 conference in Paris, one of Europe’s largest technology and innovation gatherings, Modi described artificial intelligence as a transformative force that must remain inclusive, ethical and focused on improving human lives.
Speaking before global technology leaders, policymakers and entrepreneurs, the Prime Minister stressed that innovation should not be confined to a select few but should reach every section of society. He said India’s approach to artificial intelligence is rooted in the principle of inclusivity, describing AI as “All Inclusive” rather than merely Artificial Intelligence.
Modi stated that technological advancements should contribute to social welfare, economic development and environmental sustainability. According to him, emerging technologies have the potential to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, provided they are deployed responsibly and equitably.
The Prime Minister’s remarks came as India participated as the AI Country Partner at VivaTech 2026, a role that showcased the country’s growing influence in shaping global conversations around innovation and digital transformation. Modi said India’s involvement reflects its commitment to developing technologies that empower people and create opportunities across sectors.
Highlighting the practical applications of artificial intelligence, Modi noted that AI can improve access to education, strengthen healthcare systems, enhance agricultural productivity and support climate resilience. He emphasized that technological solutions must be designed to improve everyday lives rather than deepen existing inequalities.
The Prime Minister shared examples of India’s digital transformation journey, pointing to the rapid expansion of digital public infrastructure, widespread adoption of online payment systems and technology-driven governance initiatives. These developments, he said, demonstrate how innovation can become a catalyst for inclusive growth when supported by strong public policy and broad accessibility.
Modi also underscored the importance of human-centric innovation, arguing that technological progress should be measured by its impact on people. He said the true value of emerging technologies lies in their ability to create opportunities, reduce barriers and improve quality of life for communities across the world.
During his address, Modi reflected on the changing global landscape since his previous participation in VivaTech in 2021. At that time, he noted, the world was grappling with the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Today, nations face a different set of disruptions ranging from geopolitical tensions to economic uncertainty and rapid technological shifts.
Despite these challenges, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in the power of innovation to deliver solutions. He reiterated his earlier message that creativity and technological advancement often provide answers when traditional approaches fall short.
A key focus of Modi’s speech was the growing partnership between India and France in the field of advanced technologies. Appearing alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, he highlighted the expanding collaboration between the two countries in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, research and innovation.
The leaders also interacted with Indian startups and innovators participating in the event. These companies showcased a wide range of cutting-edge solutions across sectors including healthcare, industrial technology, sustainable development and smart mobility. Their presence reflected the increasing global recognition of India’s startup ecosystem and its contribution to technological advancement.
Modi observed that startups and innovators are playing an increasingly important role in addressing real-world challenges. He said entrepreneurial talent combined with technological expertise can generate solutions that support economic growth while improving social outcomes.
The Prime Minister also referred to the recently concluded India-European Union Free Trade Agreement, describing it as a milestone in bilateral relations. He noted that the agreement is expected to strengthen economic cooperation, increase investment flows and facilitate greater collaboration in technology and innovation.
According to Modi, the agreement will create new opportunities for businesses, researchers and skilled professionals on both sides. It will also encourage deeper exchanges in talent, tourism and advanced technological development, helping to build stronger connections between India and Europe.
Beyond economic opportunities, Modi highlighted the importance of establishing ethical frameworks for emerging technologies. He emphasized that innovation must be accompanied by accountability and safeguards to ensure that technological advancements do not create new risks for society.
His remarks echoed concerns he raised earlier during a G7 session focused on artificial intelligence. There, the Prime Minister warned that while AI offers significant benefits, it also presents serious challenges if left unchecked. He called for greater international cooperation to address threats such as misinformation, deepfakes and cyber fraud.
Modi noted that artificial intelligence has the ability to transform education by enabling personalized learning experiences and expanding access to knowledge in multiple languages. Such capabilities, he said, can help bridge educational gaps and unlock the potential of millions of young learners.
However, he cautioned that the same technologies can also be misused. Without adequate safeguards, children and vulnerable groups may be exposed to manipulated content, deceptive information and other forms of digital exploitation. Addressing these concerns requires coordinated efforts among governments, technology companies and international organizations, he added.
The Prime Minister stressed that trust must remain at the center of the digital ecosystem. Citizens should feel confident that technological tools are designed and deployed in ways that protect their rights, privacy and security. Responsible governance, he argued, is essential for sustaining public confidence in innovation.
India’s approach, according to Modi, seeks to balance technological advancement with ethical responsibility. The country aims to leverage emerging technologies to promote economic growth while ensuring that innovation remains aligned with broader societal goals.
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries and economies worldwide, India is positioning itself as a leading advocate for inclusive and human-focused innovation. The Prime Minister’s message at VivaTech 2026 reinforced the idea that technology should serve humanity, not the other way around.
Concluding his address, Modi called on governments, businesses and innovators to work together in building a future where technological progress benefits all sections of society. He emphasized that the greatest achievements of innovation will not be measured solely by technological breakthroughs, but by the positive impact they create for people and communities around the world.
With artificial intelligence rapidly becoming a defining force of the modern era, India’s vision seeks to ensure that technological development remains inclusive, ethical and accessible. Through global partnerships, responsible governance and continued innovation, the country aims to contribute to a digital future that delivers opportunities for everyone.