Narendra Modi on Thursday convened a high-level roundtable with chief executives of leading AI and deeptech startups, signalling the government’s intent to balance rapid artificial intelligence expansion with stronger data governance and India-focused innovation.
The meeting, held at Seva Teerth, took place as India positions itself as a global AI hub while tightening oversight of data, misinformation and digital infrastructure.
The startups participating in the roundtable represented a broad cross-section of sectors addressing large-scale public challenges, according to a Moneycontrol report.
In healthcare, companies are deploying AI for advanced diagnostics, support for gene therapy and patient record management aimed at extending quality care to underserved regions. In agriculture, firms are using geospatial and underwater intelligence tools to enhance productivity and manage climate risks.
The cohort also included ventures working in cybersecurity, ethical AI frameworks, space technology, vernacular access to justice and education, and the modernisation of legacy enterprise systems, collectively reflecting an ecosystem seeking to address local challenges while competing globally.
Founders at the meeting highlighted what they described as India’s rapid AI expansion and untapped potential, pointing to growing global momentum around AI development and deployment shifting towards India, which they credited to policy support and digital infrastructure. Several praised the India AI Impact Summit, stating that it signals the country’s increasing influence in global AI discussions.
Modi congratulated innovators for taking bold risks but stressed the need for responsible deployment. He underlined the importance of robust data governance, warned against misinformation and urged startups to build solutions tailored to India’s needs. Referring to Unified Payments Interface as a model of simple and scalable digital innovation, he encouraged confidence in domestic products and platforms.
The Prime Minister also called for expanding AI tools in higher education in Indian languages, linking technological progress with cultural and linguistic inclusion.
He highlighted AI’s potential in monitoring crop productivity, fertiliser usage and soil health, suggesting that data-driven agriculture could become a priority area.
PM Modi reiterated support for greater private sector participation in the space industry, noting rising investor interest in Indian startups.
Separately, he met the Secretary-General of the United Nations and held discussions with chief executives of leading technology and AI firms, including OpenAI and Qualcomm, signalling continued engagement with global technology leadership alongside domestic innovation.
The roundtable was attended by founders and CEOs of companies including Abridge, Adalat AI, BrainSightAI, Credo AI, Eka Care, Glean, Innogle, Invideo, Miko, Origin, Prophaze, Rasen, Rubrik, SatSure, Supernova and Sypha AI, alongside senior government officials including P K Mishra, Shaktikanta Das and Minister of State Jitin Prasada.
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