‘MANAV’ for the World: Modi Pitches Open, Ethical AI from Delhi

New Delhi | Feb 19, 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday put India at the centre of the global AI debate, unveiling the MANAV vision for a human-first, ethical and open approach to artificial intelligence, and urging the world to democratise the technology so that people don’t turn into data points or raw material.
Addressing the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, with world leaders and top tech CEOs in attendance, Modi said India does not fear AI.
“There are two kinds of people today — those who see fear in AI and those who see fortune. India sees fortune and future in AI,” he said.
Laying out the framework, the Prime Minister spelt out what MANAV stands for.
“M is for moral and ethical systems, A for accountable governance, N for national sovereignty, A for accessible and inclusive, and V for valid and legitimate. This vision will be a crucial link for humanity’s welfare in the AI-driven world,” he said.
In a clear pitch for openness, Modi said India backs open-source AI and shared innovation.
“Some countries want AI to be developed behind closed doors. India is different. AI will truly serve the good of the world when it is shared and its codes are open. Only then can millions of young minds improve it,” he said.
He added that India’s strength lies not just in building technology but adopting it at scale.
“We build technology and we adopt it faster than anyone. The real question is not what AI will do tomorrow — it is what we are doing with AI today,” he said.
Warning against blind dependence on machines, Modi used a simple analogy.
“Give AI an open sky, but keep the command in human hands. GPS suggests directions, but the decision to turn left or right is yours. The direction we give AI today will decide our future,” he said.
On safety, especially for children, the Prime Minister struck a firm note.
“Just as school syllabi are curated, the AI space must be child-safe and family-guided,” he said.
Modi said AI must narrow gaps, not widen them.
“This technology must become a means of inclusion and empowerment, especially for the Global South. Welfare and happiness of all is our benchmark,” he said.
He underlined that AI can expand human potential, not replace it.
“AI will make systems smarter and multiply human capability many times over. It will open doors for creativity, new industries, and entrepreneurship,” he said.
The Prime Minister pointed out that three Indian companies launched AI models and apps at the summit, calling it proof of the country’s young talent and problem-solving depth.
“India is not just part of the AI revolution. India is shaping it,” he said.
The summit saw the presence of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Swiss President Guy Parmelin, along with leaders from Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Mauritius, Croatia, Serbia, Estonia and Finland, besides CEOs of major global tech firms.
Calling AI a turning point in civilisation, Modi said it is a moment that will shape the future.
“In history, there are moments that shape centuries. Artificial intelligence is one such moment. If it strays from purpose, it can destroy. If guided well, it can solve. Our responsibility is to keep the vision grand and the duty even bigger,” he said.