PM Modi warns ‘AI must not control humans’ as India unveils bold tech vision at AI Impact Summit 2026

Amid growing concerns over AI replacing jobs and disrupting the workforce, the Prime Minister said AI must act as a tool of “inclusion and empowerment”.

“India’s vision for AI is reflected in this summit’s theme, ‘Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya’—Welfare for All, Happiness for All. This is our benchmark,” Modi said.

“Humans must not be reduced to mere data points or raw material. AI must be democratized and made a tool of inclusion and empowerment, especially for the Global South. AI can guide us, but control must remain with us. Like GPS suggests the path, the final decision is ours. The direction we give AI today will define our future,” he added.

Highlighting the transformative potential of technology, Modi said AI would drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and the creation of new industries.

“We are entering an era where human and digital intelligence will co-create and co-evolve. It will make our systems smarter, more efficient, and more impactful. It will open more opportunities for people to take up creative roles,” he said.

The Prime Minister also underscored India’s commitment to openness in technological advancement, contrasting it with countries that favour restrictive approaches.

“We believe AI will truly serve the good of the world when it is shared and its codes are open. Only then will millions of young minds be able to improve it further,” he said.

Highlighting the success of the Make in India initiative in the technology sector, Modi announced that three Indian companies had launched their AI models and applications at the summit.

“These models showcase the talent of our youth. They also reflect the solutions that India is offering to the world,” he said.

Meanwhile, at the summit, Google announced the America-India Connect initiative, which will deliver new strategic fiber-optic routes to enhance the reach, reliability, and resilience of digital connectivity between the United States, India, and multiple locations across the Southern Hemisphere.

Google has also announced a $15 billion investment to establish foundational AI infrastructure in India and has been expanding subsea cable networks across the Pacific, Africa, and other regions to strengthen global connectivity.