Build AI to secure systems, serve humanity: PM Modi
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TNN
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2026, urging stakeholders to build AI-driven solutions for national security and human welfare. He emphasized the need for measurable innovation goals to accelerate India's journey toward a 'Viksit Bharat'.
PM Modi Calls for Strategic AI Innovation at ESTIC 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event served as a high-level platform for researchers, industry leaders, and start-up founders to align their technological pursuits with the national vision of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India). The Prime Minister’s address focused heavily on the dual necessity of leveraging artificial intelligence to bolster national security while simultaneously ensuring that technological advancements serve the broader needs of humanity.
Prioritizing Measurable Outcomes
Moving beyond the traditional format of academic discourse, the Prime Minister challenged the participants to transition from abstract discussions to concrete, measurable achievements. He explicitly urged the youth and industry pioneers to define clear objectives for the next three years. Whether through the development of specific prototypes, pilot projects, or consumer-facing products, the focus is on creating a tangible roadmap that contributes directly to India's socioeconomic transformation.
AI as a Pillar for National Security
A significant portion of the address highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in safeguarding systemic integrity. By calling for the development of AI to secure systems, the Prime Minister underscored the government's recognition of the evolving cyber-threat landscape. This directive suggests a future where indigenous AI research is not just an economic driver but a core component of the country’s defensive infrastructure, protecting critical digital assets from sophisticated threats.
The Vision of a 'Viksit Bharat'
The concept of 'Viksit Bharat'—a vision for a fully developed, self-reliant India by 2047—is deeply intertwined with the nation's capacity for scientific discovery. The Prime Minister noted that the foundations of this developed state must be anchored in robust scientific research and a national culture of innovation. By fostering an environment where start-ups and researchers feel empowered, the government aims to catalyze a virtuous cycle of technological self-sufficiency.
Future Trends and Global Implications
Looking ahead, the emphasis on ESTIC 2026 signals a shift toward mission-mode research in India. By encouraging attendees to focus on products that benefit both India and the global community, the government is positioning the nation as a key exporter of innovation rather than just a consumer of foreign technology. This shift is likely to accelerate the integration of AI across various sectors, including healthcare, defense, and urban governance, potentially setting a global standard for ethical and secure AI deployment.
Conclusion
The Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2026 represents a pivotal moment in India's technological journey. By mandating measurable milestones and emphasizing the humanitarian and security aspects of AI, the leadership is steering the country toward a future where scientific prowess serves as the primary engine for national growth. The success of this initiative will depend on the collaborative synergy between the state, the scientific community, and the private sector as they work to translate these ambitious goals into reality.
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