PM calls for ethical AI, data sovereignty at India AI Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday emphasised that artificial intelligence must be guided by strong ethical principles, cautioning that the scope for unethical behaviour in AI is limitless if not properly regulated. Addressing the Leaders' Plenary session at the India AI Impact Summit held at Bharat Mandapam, the Prime Minister said AI’s global journey holds a major role for “Aspirational India.”

Modi underlined the need for a global roadmap to ensure the right impact of AI, drawing inspiration from Gautama Buddha. Referring to Buddha’s teaching that right action comes from right understanding, he said it is essential for nations to come together and shape AI’s development with clarity and responsibility. “The right impact comes only when we take the right decisions at the right time, with the right intention,” he said in the presence of world leaders and technology experts.

The Prime Minister observed that while artificial intelligence offers immense opportunities, it also carries significant risks if misused. He stressed that AI companies bear a “very significant responsibility” in ensuring ethical standards are maintained. To promote responsible AI, Modi put forward three key suggestions.

First, he called for respecting data sovereignty, urging countries to establish clear data frameworks for AI training. He emphasised that data ownership and protection must remain a priority in the rapidly evolving digital ecosystem.

Second, he said AI platforms must maintain clear and transparent safety rules. Transparency in operations and safeguards would build public trust and ensure accountability in AI deployment.

Third, he highlighted the need for strong human values to guide technology. “Technology may be powerful, but direction will always be determined by human beings,” he said, stressing that ethical human intent must shape technological innovation.

Highlighting India’s digital transformation, Modi pointed to the success of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) as an example of technology serving society. He said that even during difficult circumstances, UPI enabled seamless transactions and significantly bridged the digital divide in the country.

Over the past few years, India has developed a vibrant digital public infrastructure, he noted, adding that the country is now sharing its digital platforms with the world. “For us, technology is not a means of power, but a medium of service,” the Prime Minister said.

Reiterating that AI’s global development must align with ethical norms and inclusive growth, Modi said India is committed to shaping a future where innovation serves humanity and contributes meaningfully to the aspirations of millions.