'AI for All': Modi outlines India's vision at Paris conference
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday pitched India's vision of AI for All at the VivaTech 2026 summit in Paris. The event, Europe's largest technology and startup gathering, saw Modi share the stage with French President Emmanuel Macron. He emphasized India's commitment to democratizing technology and making it accessible for all, especially in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).
Tech democratization
Importance of democratizing technology
PM Modi stressed the importance of democratizing technology for driving progress. He said, "When it comes to technology, along with innovation, what matters is access. Technology can lead to progress, only when it is democratized." He also highlighted India's role as an AI Country Partner at VivaTech 2026 and reiterated that "for India, AI means 'All Inclusive.'"
Innovation push
India's open society and talent pool
PM Modi said that India is an open society with the world's largest talent pool. He added that the country is simplifying regulations and ensuring ease of doing business. "From innovation to commercialisation, we are supporting private enterprise through targeted incentives of over $50 billion," he said. The PM also highlighted India's affordable data and low-cost green energy as factors that make it a global partner for scaling up innovations.
Tech transformation
Technology has transformed India
PM Modi also highlighted how technology has transformed India, from digital payments to AI-enabled agricultural progress and space applications. After his address, he and President Macron interacted with Indian startups and innovators showcasing frontier technologies for industry, healthcare, sustainability, and mobility. The Prime Minister also invited attendees at the summit to visit the India pavilion, which showcases India's startup ecosystem including a world's first 3D printed rocket engine.
Global partnership
PM Modi on AI's role in economic growth
PM Modi urged global tech players to collaborate with India and leverage its potential. He highlighted the role of AI in improving access, driving economic growth, and sustaining a healthy planet. The Prime Minister also gave an example of Sarlaben, an AI assistant launched by Amul that helps women dairy farmers manage their livestock.
Digital progress
India's achievements in digital payments and space technology
PM Modi also spoke about India's achievements in space technology and digital payments. He said that India is a world leader in digital payments with half of the world's transactions happening through UPI. The Prime Minister also cited DigiLocker as an example of how technology has transformed lives by giving access to authentic documents without physical copies.