PM Modi Projects India as a Global AI and Technology Hub at VivaTech 2026 in Paris

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again highlighted India's growing role in the global technology landscape by presenting the country as a major hub for artificial intelligence and innovation during his address at VivaTech 2026 in Paris. Speaking before global investors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and technology leaders, Modi emphasized that India is no longer just a consumer of digital technologies but is rapidly emerging as a creator of world-class innovations. His speech focused on India's achievements in digital infrastructure, startup development, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. The Prime Minister invited companies and research institutions from around the world to collaborate with India in shaping the future of technology. His remarks received considerable attention at one of Europe's largest technology and startup events, where innovation and AI remained the central themes.

Addressing the international audience, Prime Minister Modi stressed that India's vision for artificial intelligence is based on inclusivity and human welfare. He described AI as "AI for All," emphasizing that technology should benefit every section of society rather than remain limited to a select group. According to the Prime Minister, India's approach to artificial intelligence is rooted in democratic values and accessibility, ensuring that innovation contributes to economic growth while also addressing social challenges. He said technological progress becomes meaningful only when it reaches ordinary citizens and improves their quality of life. His vision aligns with India's larger digital transformation strategy that seeks to empower millions through accessible technology and innovation.

The Prime Minister highlighted several flagship initiatives that have transformed India's digital ecosystem over the past decade. Programs such as Digital India, Startup India, and the IndiaAI Mission have contributed significantly to the country's rise as one of the fastest-growing technology markets in the world. Modi noted that India's digital public infrastructure, including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), has become a global example of how technology can simplify financial transactions and improve economic inclusion. He pointed out that millions of startups and technology professionals are contributing to India's innovation ecosystem. These achievements, he said, have positioned India as an attractive destination for global investment and technological collaboration.

During his speech, Modi also underlined the importance of ethical and human-centric artificial intelligence. He warned that rapid technological advancement should not come at the expense of human values and social responsibility. According to him, AI systems must be transparent, trustworthy, and designed with the welfare of humanity in mind. He stressed the need for international cooperation in establishing standards and frameworks that ensure responsible AI development. The Prime Minister said that India intends to play a major role in shaping global discussions on AI governance and ethical technology policies.

On the sidelines of VivaTech 2026, Prime Minister Modi held discussions with several business leaders and technology executives to explore investment opportunities and strengthen partnerships. Meetings with French industrial leaders focused on expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, logistics, transportation, sustainable development, and digital infrastructure. The Prime Minister encouraged companies to take advantage of India's expanding market and highly skilled workforce. He assured investors that India remains committed to creating a favorable environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. These interactions reflected India's broader strategy of deepening economic ties with France and strengthening bilateral cooperation in emerging technologies.

One of the key discussions during the visit involved leading AI companies and innovators who are shaping the future of artificial intelligence worldwide. Modi emphasized the importance of open innovation and collaborative research while advocating for the development of responsible AI models. He also discussed the role of open-weight models and transparent AI systems that encourage broader participation in technological development. Experts believe that such collaborations could significantly enhance India's AI capabilities and help establish the country as a leading center for advanced research. The meetings demonstrated India's commitment to becoming a major player in the rapidly evolving AI sector.

Another major focus of the Prime Minister's address was India's ambitious push toward innovation and startup development. He highlighted plans involving billions of dollars in investments aimed at strengthening research, digital infrastructure, and emerging technologies. According to Modi, India's youthful population and entrepreneurial spirit provide a unique advantage in building future industries. He pointed out that thousands of startups across sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and fintech are developing innovative solutions that address real-world challenges. This vibrant ecosystem, he said, is attracting increasing interest from international investors and technology companies.

French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders have repeatedly emphasized the importance of deeper India-France cooperation in technology and innovation. The two countries have expanded collaboration in areas ranging from clean energy and digital infrastructure to artificial intelligence and scientific research. Analysts believe that India's growing relationship with France reflects a broader effort to diversify global technology partnerships and strengthen strategic cooperation. With Europe seeking reliable partners in emerging technologies, India is increasingly viewed as an important player in shaping future innovation ecosystems. This cooperation is expected to create new opportunities for businesses and researchers from both countries.

Industry experts attending VivaTech 2026 observed that India's presence at the event showcased the country's confidence and ambition in the global technology race. The country's success in digital payments, startup growth, and software development has enhanced its reputation among international investors. Several experts noted that India's emphasis on inclusive and human-centric AI could offer an alternative model to approaches driven solely by commercial interests. They also highlighted the country's ability to combine large-scale digital adoption with innovation. Such strengths are expected to strengthen India's influence in future discussions concerning global technology governance and AI regulations.

As competition in artificial intelligence intensifies across the world, India is positioning itself as a bridge between technological advancement and inclusive development. Prime Minister Modi's address at VivaTech 2026 conveyed a message that India's aspirations extend beyond economic growth and focus on creating technologies that benefit humanity as a whole. By promoting international collaboration, ethical AI practices, and innovation-driven growth, India aims to establish itself as one of the leading technology powers of the coming decades. The Prime Minister's interactions with global business leaders and innovators further reinforced the country's commitment to becoming a center of research, investment, and digital transformation. With a rapidly expanding technology ecosystem and strong policy support, India appears determined to play a central role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence and global innovation.