Modi emphasizes inclusive technology vision at VivaTech Summit in Paris

In Era of Disruption, Tech Must Deliver for All, Says PM Modi at VivaTech in Paris

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday unveiled India’s technology vision for the world at the VivaTech Summit in Paris, emphasizing that technology must serve everyone in this era of disruption. Speaking at the event alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, Modi outlined India’s approach to innovation, stating, “Our government will enable and industry will innovate. Startups will disrupt, and global partners will scale with us.”

Highlighting the importance of democratizing technology, Modi called for collective action, urging attendees to collaborate with India to ensure technology benefits all. He stressed that innovation alone is not enough—access to technology is equally critical. Using artificial intelligence (AI) as an example, he said, “AI must improve lives, widen access, drive growth, and also help us sustain a healthy planet.” Modi further noted that India’s participation as the AI Country Partner at VivaTech 2026 reflects its inclusive vision, stating, “For India, AI means ‘All Inclusive.’”

The VivaTech Summit, Europe’s largest technology and startup event, is hosting an Indian pavilion this year—the largest at the event—underscoring India’s growing role as a global hub for innovation, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship. Modi’s presence at both the Bharat Innovates and VivaTech Summit is expected to foster new partnerships between Indian and European technology ecosystems.

Modi also highlighted the significance of 2026 as a landmark year for India and Europe, citing the historic India-EU Free Trade Agreement and the India-France Year of Innovation. He described France as a crucial link in bringing the tech ecosystems of both regions closer together. “Our technology solutions are delivering prosperity at the grassroots level… From space technologies to nuclear energy, we are expanding the frontiers of human capability,” he said.

India’s vibrant startup ecosystem, with over 200,000 startups, was a focal point of Modi’s address. He emphasized the country’s openness, its vast talent pool, and efforts to simplify regulations and enhance ease of doing business. Modi also highlighted targeted incentives worth over $50 billion to support private enterprises, particularly in the journey from innovation to commercialization.

Earlier in the day, Modi held discussions with leading business executives in Paris, focusing on investment opportunities and expansion plans in India. Meetings included talks with Rodolphe Saade, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM, on maritime shipping, logistics, and global supply chains; Benoit Bazin, Chairman and CEO of Saint-Gobain, on sustainable construction materials; Martin Sion, CEO of Alstom, on mobility and railway modernization; and Arthur Mensch, co-founder and CEO of Mistral AI, on opportunities in India’s growing AI ecosystem.

Modi’s participation at VivaTech and his engagements with French business leaders underscore India’s commitment to fostering global partnerships and leveraging technology to drive inclusive growth and innovation.