In a landmark moment for global technology policy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the ‘MANAV’ vision at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. This comprehensive human-centric approach to AI underscores India’s commitment to ethical governance in an era of unprecedented digital transformation.
The summit drew top international leaders, all advocating for AI that is responsible, inclusive, and democratic. Social media posts from the Foreign Ministry captured the electric atmosphere, with attendees united on harnessing AI for universal good.
Addressing the audience, PM Modi posed profound questions: What kind of AI will we bequeath to tomorrow’s generations? He likened AI to nuclear energy—capable of immense good or catastrophic harm—stressing that the real challenge lies in our choices today. ‘We must foster innovation while wielding responsibility,’ he emphasized.
At the heart of his vision is ‘MANAV’: Moral and Ethical systems, Accountable Governance, National Sovereignty, Accessible and Inclusive access, and Valid, Legitimate human-focused AI. Modi illustrated with a vivid analogy: AI should have open skies to innovate, but humans must hold the reins, deciding the direction just as a navigator chooses the route despite GPS guidance.
This framework marks India’s bold stride into 21st-century leadership. By prioritizing human values, Modi’s blueprint challenges the world to rethink AI’s trajectory, ensuring technology amplifies human potential rather than overshadowing it. The summit’s outcomes promise to influence global AI standards for years to come.