PM Modi Calls AI a Turning Point in Human History, Unveils ‘MANAV Vision’ at Global Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described Artificial Intelligence as a defining shift in human history and urged nations to balance innovation with responsibility while unveiling India’s comprehensive “MANAV Vision” for AI at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi.

Addressing delegates at the summit held at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital, the Prime Minister drew parallels between AI and earlier technological breakthroughs that reshaped civilisation.

“When signals were first transmitted wirelessly, no one imagined that the entire world would one day be connected in real time. Artificial Intelligence is such a transformation of human history. What we are seeing today, what we are predicting, is just the beginning of its impact,” he said.

Comparing the rise of AI to foundational human discoveries, he said, “When sparks first emerged from stones, no one imagined that those sparks would become the foundation of civilisation. When speech was first transformed into script, no one knew that written knowledge would become the backbone of future systems.”

How is Artificial Intelligence evolving faster from machine learning to learning machines?

“Earlier, the impact of technology used to take decades to be visible. Today, the journey from machine learning to learning machines is faster, deeper and wider than ever,” he added.

Emphasising the need for a long term perspective, he said, “We have to have a big vision and shoulder an equally big responsibility. Along with the present generation, we also have to worry about what form of AI we will hand over to the coming generations.”

He further underlined the urgency of present action, stating, “The real question today is not what Artificial Intelligence can do in the future. The question is, what do we do with Artificial Intelligence in the present?” and cited nuclear power as an example of technology with both destructive and constructive outcomes.

During his keynote address, the Prime Minister unveiled India’s human centric framework for ethical, accountable and inclusive AI governance titled the MANAV Vision.

“Today at the New Delhi AI Impact Summit, I present the MANAV Vision for AI. MANAV means human,” he said.

What does the MANAV Vision for Artificial Intelligence stand for?

Explaining the acronym, he added, “‘M’ stands for moral and ethical systems - AI should be based on ethical guidance.

‘A’ stands for accountable governance, meaning transparent rules and robust oversight. ‘N’ stands for national sovereignty - whose data, his right.

‘A’ stands for accessible and inclusive - AI should be a multiplier, not a monopoly. ‘V’ stands for valid and legitimate - AI should be lawful and verifiable.”

He asserted that the framework would serve as a guiding link for the global AI ecosystem. “This MANAV vision of India will become an important link for the welfare of humanity in the AI-based world of the 21st century,” he said.

Stressing emerging risks, particularly for children, he remarked, “We have to be more cautious regarding children's safety. The AI space should also be child safe and family guided.”

How does PM Modi envision a human-centric future for Artificial Intelligence?

The Prime Minister also reflected on the evolving technological landscape and the need to make AI human centric.

“We are entering an era where humans and intelligent systems co-create, co-work and co-evolve,” he said.

“AI is a transformative power. If directionless, it becomes a disruption; if the right direction is found, it becomes a solution. How to make AI from machine-centric to human-centric, how to make it sensitive and responsive, this is the basic objective of this Global AI Impact Summit. The theme of this summit clearly reflects the perspective from which India views AI. Welfare of all, the happiness of all. This is our benchmark…,” PM Modi said.

Welcoming global participants, he said, “I welcome you all to the most historic AI Summit of the world. India is the centre of the world's largest tech pool. It is a matter of pride for the Global South that the AI summit is being organised in India.”

Reiterating India’s vision of democratising AI, he added, “Bharat looks at AI in beneficial way and that's why we chose 'Sarwajan Hitaye, Sarwajan Sukhaye' as our theme. We need AI to be democratic for all, especially Global South.”

Highlighting India’s growing capabilities in the sector, the Prime Minister said, “India sees a strong future in AI. We have the talent, energy capacity and policy clarity.”

He also announced new domestic innovations, stating, “I am pleased to inform you all that at this summit, three Indian companies have launched their AI models and apps. These models showcase the talent of our youth.” Inviting global collaboration, he urged, “I invite you all to design and develop in India, deliver to the world, humanity.”

In a symbolic display of international cooperation, the Prime Minister joined world leaders, heads of state and global technology leaders for a traditional family photo at the venue.

The photograph featured leading figures from the global technology ecosystem including Sundar Pichai, Sam Altman, Alexandr Wang and Dario Amodei, underscoring the summit’s objective of bridging policy and innovation for a human centric digital future.

(With inputs from ANI)