PM Modi Showcases India's Digital Strength at VivaTech in France

Paris witnessed a vibrant conclusion to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, with the final day dedicated to showcasing India's technological prowess and fostering connections with the Indian diaspora. Modi participated in Europe’s largest tech summit, VivaTech 2026, and later attended the cultural event 'Bonjour Modi' at the Salle Pleyel Centre, where he emphasized India's growing global influence and unity. Throughout his visit, chants welcoming the Prime Minister echoed across the city.

French President Emmanuel Macron joined Modi at VivaTech, where both leaders interacted with Indian startups. Addressing the summit, Modi presented India's vision for technology, asserting that its benefits must reach the last person in society. He highlighted India's interpretation of AI as "All Inclusive" and stressed the importance of democratizing technology, ensuring it does not become monopolized by any single country or corporation.

Modi proudly shared that India accounts for 50% of the world's real-time digital transactions, with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) now making strides in France. He cited examples like Amul’s AI-powered assistant ‘Saralben,’ which is aiding farmers and rural communities. Inviting global investors, Modi revealed that the Indian government has allocated $50 billion in targeted incentives to support technological innovation and startups.

Later in the evening, Modi joined the Indian community, where he was greeted with patriotic tunes by the Jaipur Maharaja Band. Addressing the packed auditorium, he expressed his emotions, stating that while the afternoon showcased "India's innovation," the evening was a testament to "India's connection." Modi said he carried the love of 1.4 billion Indians with him.

Seeing the diverse representation of Tamil, Punjabi, Gujarati, Marathi, and Bengali communities in the audience, Modi remarked that the gathering symbolized a "mini India" on French soil. He acknowledged the deep bond between the two nations, citing the work permits granted to Indian students in France as a testament to their friendship. Reflecting on India's progress, Modi noted that over the past 12 years, India's GDP and national highways have more than doubled.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the strategic partnership between India and France is strengthened not just by agreements but by the contributions of the Indian diaspora through their hard work and cultural values. He also highlighted that 2026 is being celebrated as the 'India-France Innovation Year.' With bilateral talks with President Macron and his engagements in Paris concluded, Modi's historic visit to France came to an end.