PM Modi meets Indian AI innovators as focus shifts to ethical, indigenous models

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a roundtable discussion with founders and leaders from Indian AI start‑ups as the country gears up for the India AI Impact Summit, a flagship event meant to showcase India’s growing capabilities in artificial intelligence and foster global collaboration.

The session focused on emerging opportunities, challenges facing the AI ecosystem, and how India can lead innovation while ensuring ethical use of the technology.

The roundtable brought together entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry experts to share insights and explore ways to strengthen homegrown AI development.

Addressing the group, PM Modi spoke about the importance of AI as a transformative force across sectors. “Artificial Intelligence is not just a technology of the future; it is a technology of today,” he said.

Modi pointed out that India’s youthful population and growing digital infrastructure give it an edge in adopting and developing AI solutions.

“India’s strength lies in its vibrant start‑up ecosystem, and AI can become a pillar of our economic progress,” he added.

Start‑ups share challenges and aspirations

During the meet, start‑up founders shed light on both opportunities and challenges in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Many stressed that while India has a wealth of talent, there are obstacles related to data access, funding, and regulatory clarity that need to be addressed.

One participant, quoted by ANI, noted that access to diverse datasets, particularly in regional languages, would help accelerate innovation. Others said that clear policy frameworks could improve investor confidence and encourage more robust R&D in niche AI segments.

“We must ensure that AI is trustworthy, inclusive and beneficial to all sections of society,” one start‑up leader said.

The roundtable set the stage for the India AI Impact Summit, scheduled to attract AI leaders, policymakers, and technologists from around the world.