On Tuesday, 11th February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the AI Action Summit in Paris, where he emphasised that artificial intelligence should be used to enhance human potential rather than replace human labour. In his address, he stressed the importance of responsible AI governance and highlighted both the opportunities and challenges posed by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence. US Vice President J.D. Vance echoed PM Modi’s views, stating that AI “will never replace human beings.”
AI as a tool for progress, not a threat
PM Modi co-chaired the summit alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. In his address, he underscored how AI is already transforming governance, economies, and societies. However, he cautioned against the risks associated with the technology, particularly its inherent biases, rapid proliferation, and high energy demands.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi pointed out that while AI has the potential to revolutionise sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture, it must be developed with a sense of responsibility. He said, “AI is writing the code for humanity in this century.”
PM Modi stated that while technological advancements in the past evolved gradually, AI is progressing at an unprecedented pace. Such rapid growth necessitates global cooperation to establish governance frameworks that uphold shared values, mitigate risks, and foster trust.
He also addressed concerns over the impact of AI on jobs. He dismissed fears of widespread job losses and argued that history has shown that technology reshapes work rather than eliminating it entirely. He said, “Loss of jobs is AI’s most feared disruption. But history has shown that work does not disappear due to technology. Its nature changes, and new types of jobs are created. We need to invest in skilling and re-skilling our people for an AI-driven future.”
"Work does not disappear due to technology… We need to invest in skilling and reskilling our people for an AI-driven future"
— OpIndia.com (@OpIndia_com) February 11, 2025
~ Prime Minister Narendra Modi at AI Action Summit in Paris pic.twitter.com/SFSFGR1Imd
The need for responsible AI governance
PM Modi called for AI governance that is not merely about mitigating risks but also about promoting innovation and making AI accessible to all, particularly in the Global South. In his address, PM Modi highlighted India’s leadership in AI adoption and the efforts it has made to build a digital public infrastructure that benefits over 1.4 billion people.
"We have unlocked the power of data through our Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture. And, we have made digital commerce democratic and accessible to all. This vision is the foundation of India’s National AI Mission."
— OpIndia.com (@OpIndia_com) February 11, 2025
~Prime Minister Narendra Modi at AI Action Summit in… pic.twitter.com/LNYrlpoklM
He noted that India has developed one of the world’s largest AI talent pools and is working on its own Large Language Model to cater to the nation’s diverse linguistic landscape. “India is ready to share its experience and expertise to ensure that the AI future is for good and for all,” he stated as he outlined India’s commitment to ethical AI development.
He also emphasised the environmental impact of AI, pointing out its high energy consumption. “AI’s high energy intensity needs to be looked into. This will require green power to fuel its future.”
Vance backs Modi’s stance on AI
Following Modi’s address, US Vice President JD Vance expressed agreement with the Indian prime minister’s position, stating that AI should be seen as a tool to enhance productivity rather than as a replacement for human labour.
America's VP JD Vance praises PM Modi for his position on Artificial Intelligence pic.twitter.com/2iBgtQPlVL
— Shashank Mattoo (@MattooShashank) February 11, 2025
“I appreciate Prime Minister Modi’s point. AI, I really believe, will facilitate and make people more productive. It is not going to replace human beings. It will never replace human beings,” Vance stated, criticising industry leaders who suggest otherwise.
The AI Action Summit was attended by global leaders, industry experts, and policymakers. The focus of the summit was on AI governance, accessibility, and responsible innovation. The event is being seen as a significant step towards establishing a consensus among international entities on harnessing AI for global good while evaluating and mitigating potential risks associated with it.
