AI Impact Summit LIVE: Narendra Modi Launches ‘MANAV Vision’ to Shape Ethical AI Future

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a conversation with France President Emmanuel Macron during the India AI Impact Summit 2026, in New Delhi. (@NarendraModi/Yt via PTI Photo)(PTI02_19_2026_000033B)(@NarendraModi)

New Delhi : At the AI Impact Summit on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled India’s new framework for artificial intelligence, titled the ‘MANAV Vision’, placing strong emphasis on ethics, governance, and human-centric innovation. Addressing global leaders, technology experts, and policymakers, Modi said artificial intelligence must remain a tool for human welfare rather than a force that deepens inequality or erodes trust.

The Prime Minister explained that MANAV reflects India’s approach to technology rooted in human values. He underlined that AI should be developed in a way that strengthens democracy, protects individual rights, and promotes transparency in decision-making. According to Modi, the rapid expansion of AI across healthcare, education, agriculture, and public services makes it essential to establish global standards that ensure accountability and fairness.

During his keynote address, Modi warned against unregulated AI systems that could amplify bias, misinformation, and job displacement. He stressed the need for strong governance frameworks that balance innovation with safeguards. “AI should empower the weakest and give voice to the unheard,” he said, calling on nations to work together to create norms for responsible use of emerging technologies.

A key pillar of the MANAV Vision is ethical AI development, which includes protecting data privacy, preventing algorithmic discrimination, and ensuring explainability in automated systems. Modi highlighted that technology should be aligned with social good, especially in developing countries where digital tools can bridge gaps in access to healthcare, education, and financial services.

The Prime Minister also emphasized India’s role as a global technology hub and its responsibility to lead conversations on digital ethics. He noted that India’s large and diverse population provides a unique testing ground for AI solutions that are scalable, inclusive, and culturally sensitive. According to him, lessons from India’s digital public infrastructure — such as identity systems and digital payments — could inform international AI governance models.

International delegates at the summit welcomed the focus on values-based innovation, with several speakers echoing concerns about unchecked AI expansion. Experts pointed out that without clear rules, advanced AI systems could be misused for mass surveillance, deepfakes, and cybercrime. The summit discussions highlighted the need for cooperation between governments, private firms, and civil society to build trust in AI technologies.

The MANAV Vision also calls for capacity-building and skill development, particularly for youth. Modi said preparing the workforce for an AI-driven economy is crucial to prevent technological disruption from widening social and economic divides. He proposed greater investment in research, open innovation, and partnerships between universities and industry.

As AI continues to reshape economies and governance worldwide, the summit marked a significant moment for India’s positioning in global tech diplomacy. By foregrounding ethics and governance, the MANAV Vision aims to influence future international agreements on artificial intelligence, similar to how climate change frameworks guide environmental action.

With nations racing to harness AI’s potential, Modi’s message was clear: innovation must move forward hand in hand with responsibility. The Prime Minister concluded by urging world leaders to ensure that artificial intelligence remains a servant of humanity — not its master — and to collectively shape a future where technology strengthens human dignity and social trust.