New Delhi, February 19: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday delivered a message of technological optimism at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, asserting that while some view artificial intelligence (AI) with apprehension, India embraces it as a cornerstone of its future growth.
Addressing the summit at Bharat Mandapam, the Prime Minister said, “While some see fear in AI, others see the future. I can say with utmost pride that India finds its future in Artificial Intelligence,” highlighting the nation’s proactive stance toward the technology.
PM Modi noted the unprecedented speed and scale of technological change. “AI is making machines intelligent, but more than that, it is increasing human capabilities manyfold. Earlier, technology’s impact took decades; today, the journey from machine learning to learning machines is faster, deeper and wider than ever,” he said.
Drawing a moral parallel, he compared AI to the discovery of nuclear power, emphasizing the responsibility to shape its use for future generations. “The real question today is not what AI can do in the future, but what we do with AI in the present. Nuclear power has shown both its destructive and constructive potential; AI too demands a responsible approach,” he stated.
Framing AI as a “transformative power,” the Prime Minister stressed that it can be either a solution or a disruption, depending on its orientation. He cited the summit’s theme — Sarvajan Hitay, Sarvajan Sukhay (Welfare of all, happiness of all) — as India’s benchmark for using AI responsibly.
“We must shift AI from machine-centric to human-centric, making it sensitive and responsive. This is the core objective of the Global AI Impact Summit,” he said.
Addressing the workforce of the future, PM Modi called for inclusive, trusted, and human-centric AI systems. “Skilling, reskilling, and lifelong learning must become a mass movement. If we move forward together, AI will elevate humanity’s potential,” he said.
Highlighting the dangers of data-driven dehumanisation, he advocated for the democratisation of AI, particularly to empower the Global South. “Humans must not become mere data points. AI should be a tool for inclusion and empowerment. Like GPS, it should guide us, but the final call remains ours,” he explained.
On digital threats, PM Modi stressed the need for global standards to combat deepfakes and ensure authenticity. “AI-generated content should have clear labels. Trust must be built into the technology from the start,” he said.
The India AI Impact Summit, the first global AI summit hosted in the Global South, brought together policymakers, industry experts, academicians, innovators, and civil society to advance global discussions on AI, aligning with the national vision of Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhay and the principle of AI for Humanity. (Agency)
