At one of Europe’s biggest tech summits, India’s pitch focused on AI, startups, and digital transformation.
Prime Minister NarendraModi recently projected India as a Global Hub of Innovation and Technology at the VivaTech 2026 in Paris. He reinforced India’s growing position in innovation, AI, and digital infrastructure. Addressing entrepreneurs, investors, and tech leaders, he portrayed the nation as one rapidly evolving from a consumer of tech to a builder of scalable digital ecosystems.
Held annually in Paris, VivaTech has become one of the world’s leading technology and startup gatherings, attracting innovators, policymakers, and global investors. This year’s event saw India take center stage, reflecting the country’s increasing influence in the global innovation economy.
A focus on inclusive AI and digital growth.
A key theme of Modi’s speech was artificial intelligence, where he emphasized what he described as “AI for all”, highlighting accessibility, inclusivity, and ethical deployment. The message aligns with India’s broader ambition to democratize technology while ensuring it benefits a wider population rather than a select few.
He also pointed to India’s digital public infrastructure, including platforms like UPI and Aadhaar, as examples of how large-scale technology can drive financial inclusion and public service delivery. These systems have increasingly become case studies for governments and institutions globally, looking at digital transformation models.
India’s startup ecosystem gains global attention.
Beyond policy, the summit served as a platform to spotlight India’s startup ecosystem. With over 100,000 startups and one of the world’s largest pools of STEM talent, India is positioning itself as a key player in emerging sectors like AI, fintech, deep tech, and climate innovation.
The Prime Minister also invited global investors and technology companies to deepen partnerships with India, signaling the government’s continued push to attract capital and innovation-driven collaborations. Analysts view this as part of a larger strategy to strengthen India’s place in global supply chains and next-generation technologies.
Modi’s appearance at VivaTech was more than a diplomatic engagement; it was a strategic message to the world’s technology ecosystem. As countries compete for leadership in AI and innovation, India is increasingly positioning itself not just as a fast-growing market but as a long-term technology partner shaping the future of global digital progress.