“Technology Exists To Serve Humanity, Not Replace It”: PM Modi At AI Impact Summit 2026

As India opened the AI Impact Summit 2026 in the national capital, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined a broad vision for artificial intelligence, stressing that technology should expand human capability while safeguarding social values. In a detailed interview, the Prime Minister said the guiding philosophy behind the summit is "Sarvajan Hitay, Sarvajan Sukhaye" meaning welfare and happiness for all.

He described artificial intelligence as a turning point for civilisation and said its direction will determine whether it empowers society or deepens inequality. "Technology exists to serve humanity, not replace it," he said, adding that the summit is designed to ensure "meaningful and equitable outcomes, not just innovation."

A Global South Platform And Human-Centric AI

The summit has brought together heads of state, ministers, technology leaders and industry representatives. According to the Prime Minister, India intends to amplify voices that are often left out of global technology conversations.

"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 explained the structure of the summit around "People, Planet and Progress", emphasising inclusive datasets, climate solutions, public health and multilingual access.

"AI systems draw upon knowledge and data generated across societies worldwide. Therefore, we want AI's benefits to be diffused to everyone and not just hoarded by early adopters."

Role Of AI In Viksit Bharat 2047

The Prime Minister linked artificial intelligence directly to India's long-term development roadmap.

"AI represents a transformative opportunity in India's journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047."

He pointed to healthcare applications such as early detection of tuberculosis, diabetic retinopathy and epilepsy at primary and district health centres. In education, he said personalised learning in Indian languages is helping rural students. He cited a dairy initiative where technology supports women farmers.

"At a time when the world is worried about AI deepening divides, India is using it to dissolve divides."

Agriculture advisory systems, soil analytics and weather intelligence are also being integrated, while AI is digitising ancient manuscripts to preserve heritage.

Tackling Bias, Digital Infrastructure And Global Cooperation

The Prime Minister acknowledged risks associated with artificial intelligence.

"AI systems can inadvertently perpetuate biases related to gender, language and socio-economic background."

He said India's diversity makes the issue more complex and requires datasets that represent regional languages and rural contexts. He also highlighted India's digital public infrastructure.

"Our success with Aadhaar, UPI and other digital public goods was not accidental."

He explained that building infrastructure as a public good and designing for inclusion enabled large-scale adoption. With AI layered onto these systems, governance could improve welfare targeting, fraud detection and urban planning.

"Technology must serve every citizen, regardless of geography, gender or income."

IT Sector, Jobs And Youth Concerns

Addressing job fears, the Prime Minister said artificial intelligence will change work rather than eliminate it.

"Preparation is the best antidote to fear."

He described AI as a "force-multiplier" that would help professionals reach more people and create new opportunities.

"History has shown that work does not disappear due to technology. Its nature changes and new types of jobs are created."

He noted India ranked third in the Stanford Global AI Vibrancy Index 2025 and predicted the IT sector could reach $400 billion by 2030.

Safety, Regulation And Aatmanirbhar Bharat

The government is developing safeguards including watermarking AI-generated content and addressing deepfakes. The IndiaAI Safety Institute has been set up to promote responsible deployment.

"While AI may enhance human capabilities, the ultimate responsibility for decision-making must always remain with human beings."

He called for global norms on AI governance and strict prohibition of its use in crime and terrorism.

Outlining the long-term ambition, he said India should not just consume technology but create it.

"India must not just consume technology but create it."

He added that the country aims to become one of the top three AI superpowers and deploy AI models globally in native languages.

"Every Indian will experience AI as an enabler of opportunity, a multiplier of capability, and a servant of human dignity, not as a threat to their livelihood."

The Prime Minister concluded that India's AI mission is about writing its own technological future while ensuring innovation remains inclusive and responsible.