New Delhi: Narendra Modi on Thursday asserted that artificial intelligence (AI) must be democratised and transformed into a tool for inclusion and empowerment, particularly for countries of the Global South. Addressing the India AI Impact Summit at Bharat Mandapam, the Prime Minister said India is not merely participating in the AI revolution but actively leading and shaping it.
Speaking in the presence of world leaders and top industry executives, Modi highlighted that the expo is being hosted in a nation representing one-sixth of humanity, home to the world’s largest young population and one of the biggest pools of technology talent.
“Artificial intelligence marks a transformative chapter in human history. India is not just a part of the AI revolution, but is leading and shaping it,” he said.
The Prime Minister emphasised that India is not only building new technologies but also rapidly adapting them to tackle emerging global challenges. He underlined the country’s expanding digital capabilities, stating that India is positioning itself at the forefront of the AI revolution.
Addressing concerns surrounding emerging technologies, Modi acknowledged that some people remain sceptical about AI. However, he noted that the younger generation’s enthusiasm for embracing artificial intelligence has been unprecedented. He also pointed to the overwhelming response to the AI Summit exhibition as evidence of growing public interest.
“In the course of human history, there have been certain turning points that shaped entire centuries. These turning points set the direction of civilisation and transform the pace of development. Artificial intelligence is one such transformation,” he said.
The Prime Minister stressed that the central debate should not focus solely on what AI might achieve in the future, but on how it can be meaningfully utilised in the present. He described AI as a powerful and transformative force with immense potential. While cautioning that misuse could prove destructive, he said responsible guidance could enable AI to deliver solutions to pressing global problems.
During the summit, Modi also unveiled the ‘MANAV Vision’ for AI, outlining a framework centred on moral and ethical systems, accountable governance, and the protection of national sovereignty.
Among the prominent leaders attending the summit were Emmanuel Macron, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, Tshering Tobgay, Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Andrej Plenkovic, Aleksandar Vucic, Sebastien Pillay, Alar Karis, and Petteri Orpo.
The summit underscored India’s ambition to serve as a global hub for responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence development, with a focus on equitable access and sustainable growth.
