“AI Stands at a Civilisational Inflection Point”: PM Modi Calls for Human-Centric Innovation
New Delhi: Prime Minister on Tuesday said that artificial intelligence (AI) has brought humanity to a “civilisational inflection point,” urging nations, innovators, and industry leaders to ensure that technological advancement remains firmly rooted in human values and inclusivity.
Addressing a gathering of global technology leaders and policymakers, PM Modi underscored that AI must be shaped not merely by market forces or competition, but by a shared responsibility to humanity. “AI stands at a civilisational inflection point. The choices we make today will determine whether technology empowers people or deepens inequalities,” he said.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for human-centric innovation, advocating that AI systems should augment human capabilities rather than replace them. He called for transparent, ethical, and accountable frameworks that safeguard privacy, prevent misuse, and promote trust in digital ecosystems.
Highlighting India’s rapid strides in digital public infrastructure, PM Modi noted that the country’s approach to technology has always focused on scale, inclusivity, and affordability. He pointed to India’s experience in leveraging digital platforms to expand financial inclusion, healthcare access, and governance delivery, suggesting that similar principles should guide AI development globally.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of global cooperation in setting standards and regulatory norms for AI. “No single nation can address the challenges or harness the opportunities of AI alone. We must work together to build guardrails that encourage innovation while protecting fundamental rights,” he said.
Calling on startups, researchers, and industry leaders to prioritize societal good, PM Modi said AI should be used to tackle pressing global challenges such as climate change, healthcare access, agriculture productivity, and education.
He further underlined the need to invest in skilling and re-skilling the workforce to prepare for an AI-driven future. “As technology transforms industries, we must ensure that people are equipped with the tools and knowledge to thrive in this new era,” he added.
Concluding his remarks, PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to playing a constructive role in shaping the global AI discourse, guided by the principle that technology must serve humanity.
