February 11, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday emphasized the need for global investment in skilling and re-skilling to adapt to an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven future. Speaking at the AI Action Summit at the Grand Palais in Paris, which he is co-chairing with French President Emmanuel Macron, Modi addressed key concerns surrounding AI, including job displacement, cybersecurity, and disinformation.

"Loss of jobs is AI's most feared disruption, but history has shown that work does not disappear due to technology, only its nature changes," PM Modi stated. "We need to invest in skilling and re-skilling our people for an AI-driven future."

Highlighting the rapid pace of AI development and its increasing integration into various sectors, Modi stressed the necessity of global collaboration to establish governance frameworks and standards that uphold shared values while mitigating risks.

"We must develop open-source systems that enhance trust and transparency. We must build quality data centers free from biases, democratize technology, and create people-centered applications," he said. "Concerns related to cybersecurity, disinformation, and deepfakes must also be addressed."

The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of ensuring AI technology is adapted to local ecosystems to maximize its benefits. He called for collective international efforts to regulate and govern AI advancements responsibly, ensuring that its deployment aligns with ethical standards and global stability.

As AI continues to revolutionize industries worldwide, Modi's speech underscored India's commitment to fostering a balanced approach that harnesses AI's potential while safeguarding against its disruptive impacts.