EVIAN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a human-centric approach to artificial intelligence (AI), stating that the true success of the technology will not be measured by the power of machines but by its ability to improve the lives of ordinary people. Addressing a session titled “Ensuring a Safe, Rapid and Efficient Rollout of AI,” the Prime Minister highlighted the need for global cooperation, responsible innovation and ethical governance in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
In his remarks, PM Modi said that artificial intelligence has already transformed nearly every aspect of human life, ranging from healthcare and education to governance and industry. However, he emphasised that technological advancement should always remain focused on human welfare.
“The true test of AI is not how powerful our machines become. Its real test lies in how much it empowers ordinary human beings,” PM Modi said, underlining India’s commitment to ensuring that technology serves humanity rather than replacing or exploiting it.
India Promotes Human-Centric AI Development
The Prime Minister said India’s approach towards AI has consistently been centred on people, inclusivity and societal benefit. He referred to the AI Impact Summit held in New Delhi earlier this year and the country’s MANAV vision, both of which reflect India’s commitment to responsible and people-oriented technological development.
According to PM Modi, India believes AI should become a tool for empowerment that creates opportunities, enhances productivity and improves access to essential services for everyone.
He added that technological progress should not be limited to a few countries or corporations but should benefit societies across the world, particularly developing nations.
AI Must Be Rooted In Human Values
PM Modi also referenced recent comments by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV regarding the importance of human values, inclusivity and meaningful human control in AI development.
He said India’s vision strongly aligns with these principles and that ethics must remain at the core of future AI systems. The Prime Minister stressed that while AI can significantly improve lives, its unchecked growth could also create serious challenges if appropriate safeguards are not established. He warned that the global community must ensure technology develops alongside strong governance mechanisms.
Child Safety Must Become A Global Priority
A major focus of PM Modi’s address was the protection of children in the digital era.
He said AI can become a powerful educational tool capable of boosting creativity, enhancing learning experiences and expanding access to knowledge. However, without proper safeguards, the same technology could expose children to misinformation, deepfakes, manipulation and online exploitation.
The Prime Minister described child safety as one of the most urgent priorities in AI deployment. He said the answer lies in building strong value systems, responsible design frameworks and effective governance structures.
According to him, governments, technology companies and international organisations must work together to ensure digital platforms become spaces that promote learning and innovation rather than becoming instruments of manipulation.
“We must ensure that the digital space becomes a playground for learning for children, not a tool for manipulation,” he said.
Cybersecurity And AI Access Must Be Inclusive
PM Modi also highlighted the growing intersection between artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
He said cyberspace should be treated as a global public good that benefits everyone equally. Democracies around the world, he noted, must have access to advanced AI technologies to protect critical information infrastructure and respond effectively to rising cyber threats.
The Prime Minister cautioned against the concentration of AI capabilities in the hands of a limited number of countries or entities.
He argued that broader access would help nations strengthen digital resilience and build secure technological ecosystems.
Modi’s Key Suggestions For Global AI Governance
During his address, PM Modi proposed several measures to establish a balanced and secure global AI ecosystem.
Promote Safe-By-Design AI Systems: He urged countries to prioritise safety from the earliest stages of AI development rather than addressing risks after deployment.
Develop Common Standards: He called for international standards, testing frameworks and regulatory sandboxes that would allow innovation and governance to advance simultaneously.
Combat Deepfakes And Cyber Fraud: PM Modi advocated stronger global cooperation to tackle emerging threats such as misinformation, deepfakes and cyber-enabled fraud.
Ensure Benefits Reach The Global South: He stressed that developing countries must not be left behind in the AI revolution and should have equal opportunities to access technology and its benefits.
Call For Collaborative Global Leadership
As artificial intelligence increasingly shapes economies, governance and societies worldwide, PM Modi’s message focused on balancing innovation with responsibility.
He reiterated that AI should become an inclusive force that bridges inequalities rather than creating new divisions.
The Prime Minister’s address reinforced India’s position as a strong advocate for ethical, democratic and human-centred AI development at a time when governments globally are racing to establish rules for the next phase of technological transformation.
He concluded that international collaboration, ethical principles and equal access will determine whether AI becomes one of humanity’s greatest opportunities or one of its biggest challenges.
