NEW DELHI, Feb 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India stands at the forefront of the artificial intelligence (AI) transformation, asserting that the country’s progress in the sector reflects both ambition and responsibility.
His remarks came ahead of the inauguration of the India AI Impact Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital. The Expo will be held from February 16 to 20 alongside the India AI Impact Summit at the same venue.
In a post on X, Modi said, “Bringing the world together to discuss AI! Starting today, India hosts the AI Impact Summit at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. I warmly welcome world leaders, captains of industry, innovators, policymakers, researchers and tech enthusiasts from across the globe.”
Highlighting the summit’s theme — “Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya” (welfare for all, happiness for all) — the Prime Minister said it reflects a shared commitment to harnessing AI for human-centric progress.
Modi noted that AI is transforming key sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, governance and enterprise. He expressed confidence that the Summit would enrich global discussions on innovation, collaboration and the responsible use of AI.
“I am confident that the outcomes of the Summit will help shape a future that is progressive, innovative and opportunity-driven,” he said.
Emphasising India’s digital strengths, Modi credited the country’s 1.4 billion citizens for placing it at the forefront of the AI revolution. He highlighted India’s digital public infrastructure, vibrant startup ecosystem and cutting-edge research as key drivers of its AI ambitions.
On Sunday, in an interview with PTI, the Prime Minister pitched India as a global hub for digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence, saying the country is ready to host the world’s data and lead the next phase of the technology revolution.
“The tax incentives announced in the Budget are aimed at accelerating investment in this sector, reducing the cost of building advanced facilities and positioning India as a globally competitive destination for data infrastructure,” he said.
In a strong message of global outreach, Modi added, “We invite the world’s data to reside in India.” (Agencies)
