Nice /New Delhi, 14 June (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted India’s rapid transformation into a global innovation powerhouse, stating that innovation, technology and the aspirations of the country’s youth are driving the nation’s growth and shaping its future.

Speaking at the Bharat Innovates programme in Nice alongside French President Emmanuel Macron,PM Modi said the India-France partnership is built not only on shared interests but also on a shared vision for the future. He described innovation as a key pillar of India’s development journey and emphasized the role of young entrepreneurs, researchers and technology professionals in accelerating the country’s progress.

Addressing investors, startup founders, venture capitalists and industry leaders gathered at the event, the Prime Minister said India has created a vibrant innovation ecosystem that is generating solutions for both domestic and global challenges. He noted that the country’s startup movement has expanded significantly in recent years, supported by policy reforms, digital infrastructure and growing investment in research and emerging technologies.

PM Modi said the ambitions and creativity of India’s youth are transforming sectors ranging from artificial intelligence and semiconductors to healthcare, space technology and advanced manufacturing. He stressed that innovation is no longer confined to a few major cities but is increasingly emerging from educational institutions, research centres and startup hubs across the country.

The Bharat Innovates programme, jointly inaugurated by Modi and Macron, brings together leading startups and venture capital funds from India, France and several other countries. The initiative aims to identify, mentor and showcase promising technology ventures while connecting them with a global network of investors, policymakers, research institutions and industry partners.

During his address, PM Modi said India’s technological progress is creating opportunities not only for economic growth but also for solving pressing global issues through affordable, scalable and sustainable solutions. He added that the country’s innovation ecosystem is contributing to a future driven by knowledge, entrepreneurship and collaboration.

French President Emmanuel Macron praised India’s achievements in innovation and research, describing the country as an emerging global innovation leader. He highlighted India’s large pool of engineers, expanding research capabilities and growing influence in frontier technologies, saying these strengths have positioned the country as a major force in the global innovation landscape.

The event forms part of Modi’s five-day visit to France and Slovakia. In France, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Macron, participate in discussions on strategic cooperation and later attend the G-7 Summit, where he is expected to engage with world leaders on key global issues.

The Bharat Innovates programme is being held as part of the India-France Year of Innovation and is expected to deepen cooperation between the two countries in technology, research, entrepreneurship and emerging sectors. Officials said the platform will help strengthen innovation-driven partnerships and open new opportunities for startups and investors from both nations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar