Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on world leaders and technology executives to ensure artificial intelligence (AI) development remains centred on humanity, warning that people must not become “just a data point or raw material for AI.”
Speaking at the India AI Summit in New Delhi, Mr Modi said the rapid expansion of AI technologies must be matched with clear ethical standards and global safeguards.
He urged governments and companies to prioritise transparency, accountability and inclusivity as AI systems become more deeply embedded in daily life.
“AI must augment human potential, not diminish human agency,” he told delegates from dozens of countries, including policymakers, researchers and senior executives from major technology firms.
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed the call for stronger international cooperation, saying innovation should not outpace regulation. Mr Macron emphasised the need for shared standards to prevent misuse, disinformation and threats to democratic institutions.
“We must act collectively to ensure AI serves humanity and respects our values,” he said, warning that fragmented approaches could lead to regulatory gaps and geopolitical tensions.
The summit comes amid intensifying global debate over AI governance, as generative AI systems and advanced machine-learning models are rapidly deployed across sectors including healthcare, finance, defence and education.
The European Union has already adopted the Artificial Intelligence Act, one of the world’s most comprehensive AI regulatory frameworks, aimed at categorising AI systems by risk level. Meanwhile, the United States has pursued a mix of executive actions and voluntary commitments from technology companies.
According to a recent report by the United Nations, AI governance requires stronger international coordination to address cross-border risks, including algorithmic bias, surveillance concerns and labour market disruption.
Industry leaders at the summit stressed AI’s transformative potential. Representatives from global technology firms argued that AI could accelerate scientific discovery, improve public services and drive economic growth, particularly in developing economies.
However, civil society groups have raised concerns about data privacy, job displacement and the concentration of power among a handful of corporations.
India has positioned itself as a major player in the AI race, leveraging its large technology workforce and expanding digital infrastructure. The government has pledged investment in research, semiconductor manufacturing and AI start-ups as part of its broader digital strategy.
Mr Modi said India aims to develop AI tools that are inclusive and accessible, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare and education. He also highlighted the importance of multilingual AI systems capable of serving India’s diverse population.
Observers say the summit reflects India’s growing role in shaping global technology governance, as emerging economies seek a stronger voice in setting international standards.
