Modi at VivaTech: Technology Progress Requires Democratization for All

Technology Drives Progress Only When Democratised: PM Modi at VivaTech in Paris

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the 10th edition of VivaTech in Paris alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, emphasised that technology can drive progress only when it is democratised. Speaking at France’s largest startup event on Thursday, he urged European businesses to leverage India’s vast talent pool, targeted incentives, and scale to develop frontier technologies.

Highlighting India’s vision for human-centric artificial intelligence (AI) and cutting-edge innovations, Modi told an audience of tech entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders that access to technology is as important as innovation itself. "Technology can lead to progress only when it is democratised. India believes that in this era of disruption, technology must deliver for all," he stated.

The Prime Minister underscored the transformative potential of AI, asserting that it must improve lives, expand access, drive economic growth, and contribute to a sustainable planet. He added, "Our participation as the AI Country Partner at VivaTech 2026 reflects this very vision. For India, AI means ‘All Inclusive’."

Modi also highlighted India’s credentials as an open society with the world’s largest talent pool, noting that the country is simplifying regulations and enhancing ease of doing business. He pointed out that India is supporting private enterprises with targeted incentives exceeding $50 billion, while offering some of the world’s most affordable data and low-cost green energy. "Our approach is clear. Our government will enable, and industry will innovate. Startups will disrupt, and global partners will scale with us," he said.

The Prime Minister illustrated how technology is driving transformative changes in India, citing examples such as the world’s highest volume of digital payments, the largest digital identity system, AI-enabled advancements in agriculture, and cutting-edge space applications. He shared that Indian women are being trained as drone pilots for agricultural purposes, while satellite data is helping fishermen identify promising fishing zones, saving fuel and time while improving their catch. "Our technology solutions are delivering prosperity at the grassroots level," he remarked.

Following his keynote address, Modi and Macron interacted with Indian startups and innovators showcasing technologies and solutions for industries such as healthcare, sustainability, and mobility.

India’s presence at VivaTech 2026 is its largest to date, with over 80 Indian tech companies and startups participating. The country’s pavilions are showcasing innovations in AI, digital public infrastructure, health-tech, clean technologies, mobility, and advanced computing. India’s engagement with VivaTech has been growing steadily, with the nation being named the first "Country of the Year" at VivaTech 2022 and formalising collaboration with the Bengaluru Tech Summit.