Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed ongoing concerns regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on employment during an interview with ANI. He emphasized the government’s commitment to investing in the skilling and re-skilling of the workforce, stating, “Preparation is the best antidote to fear.” Modi’s remarks come amid global anxieties about AI-driven disruptions in job markets, highlighting the need for proactive measures to equip citizens for an AI-enabled future.
Modi stated that India is leveraging AI to bridge existing divides rather than exacerbate them. “We are making it an efficient tool for delivering healthcare, education and economic opportunity to every village, every district, and every citizen,” he said, reinforcing the government’s vision of integrating AI into various sectors.
India’s AI market is projected to significantly contribute to the country’s IT sector, with estimates suggesting it could reach $400 billion by 2030. This growth is anticipated to be fueled by advancements in AI-enabled outsourcing and domain-specific automation. The Prime Minister envisions India positioning itself among the top three global AI superpowers, not only in AI consumption but also in its development and innovation.
Modi highlighted the potential of India’s AI models to serve billions globally, particularly in native languages. He expressed optimism regarding the valuation of Indian AI startups, predicting they will reach hundreds of billions, creating millions of high-quality jobs. “We remain committed to strengthening every effort by our talented youth to make AI a force-multiplier for innovation and inclusion,” he asserted.
In discussing the ongoing India AI Impact Summit 2026, Modi noted that the event is focused on ensuring meaningful and equitable outcomes in AI development, rather than merely fostering innovation. “Today, AI stands at a civilisational inflection point. It can expand human capability in unprecedented ways, but it can also test existing social foundations if left unguided,” he said.
The Prime Minister explained that the summit’s motto, “Sarvajan Hitay, Sarvajan Sukhaye,” encapsulates India’s civilizational philosophy, emphasizing that technology should ultimately serve humanity rather than replace it. As the first global AI summit hosted in the Global South, it aims to amplify under-represented voices and address development priorities, with central themes including AI governance, inclusive datasets, climate applications, agricultural productivity, public health, and multilingual access.
Modi underscored the importance of creating global awareness about the biases and limitations of AI, viewing this summit as a platform for collaboration among stakeholders. He believes that India’s startups, research institutions, and tech ecosystem can develop AI solutions that enhance manufacturing, improve governance, and generate new employment opportunities tailored to the country’s unique needs, particularly for farmers, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women entrepreneurs, and grassroots innovators.
As the country navigates its path toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat, or self-reliant India, Modi’s statements reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that AI acts as a catalyst for inclusive growth and innovation, addressing deep-rooted developmental challenges while expanding access to economic opportunities across urban and rural areas.
In summary, PM Modi’s engagement with AI’s potential underscores a pivotal moment in India’s technological landscape, where strategic investment in talent and innovation can foster a future that is not only prosperous but also equitable for all citizens.
See also
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