Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a compelling address at VivaTech 2026, Europe’s premier technology and innovation summit, underscoring India’s remarkable transformation into a global technology powerhouse. Speaking at the event in Paris, the Prime Minister emphasised that India is undergoing a rapid transformation powered by technology and innovation, positioning the country as a leading hub for artificial intelligence and digital solutions.
Addressing the 10th edition of the VivaTech Summit, PM Modi rolled out the red carpet for top tech companies, emphasising that his government is easing regulations and expanding ease of doing business. He asked the attendees to visit the India pavilion at the event and get a feel of the startup innovation and India’s immense energy.
In his speech, PM Modi pointed out that nearly half of the world’s digital transactions now take place in India, thanks to pioneering initiatives like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). He noted with pride that UPI has achieved global reach, enabling seamless real-time payments even at iconic locations in Paris such as the Eiffel Tower and the city’s airports. The Prime Minister highlighted how India has built the world’s largest digital identity system and expansive digital payment platforms, leveraging technology at scale to promote financial inclusion, education, telemedicine, and agricultural advancements.
PM Narendra Modi articulated India’s vision for artificial intelligence as “All Inclusive,” stressing that technology can drive meaningful progress only when it is democratised and made accessible to all sections of society. He described India as an open society blessed with the world’s largest talent pool, supported by simplified regulations, affordable data, and low-cost green energy.
The Prime Minister also announced targeted incentives exceeding $50 billion to back private enterprises from the innovation stage through to commercialisation, extending a warm invitation to global technology leaders to invest and partner with India. He also delved on India’s achievements in space technology stating that India was the first country to land near the south pole of the moon.
The address came as part of the India-France Year of Innovation 2026, with India serving as the AI Country Partner at the summit. PM Modi’s participation, alongside interactions with leading CEOs and a visit to the prominent India Pavilion, reaffirmed the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations in the fields of technology, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship. He called upon the global community to collaborate in harnessing technology for the benefit of humanity, particularly in addressing challenges in education, health, and sustainable development.
The Prime Minister’s speech received enthusiastic applause from the audience, reflecting India’s growing stature on the world technology stage.
