New Delhi/ Bhopal June 14, 2026

The French city of Nice witnessed a unique gathering of innovators, investors and technology leaders on June 14 as India showcased its growing strength in the global innovation ecosystem.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated Bharat Innovates 2026, a major event that brought together India's leading deep-tech startups, researchers, investors and global venture capital firms under one roof. The event was more than a technology exhibition. It was a platform to present India's innovation journey to the world and strengthen cooperation between India and France in emerging technologies.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi thanked President Macron for his presence and described India and France as trusted partners working together to address global challenges. He said the partnership between the two countries has expanded into several key areas, including artificial intelligence, clean energy, security and technological innovation. The Prime Minister remarked that Bharat Innovates 2026 has become an important milestone in the ongoing India-France Year of Innovation. He said the event reflects the shared commitment of both nations to use technology and innovation for the greater global good.

Walking through the exhibition halls, visitors got a glimpse of India's fast-growing startup ecosystem. More than 120 deep-tech startups and over 20 Institutes of Excellence showcased cutting-edge solutions in sectors ranging from quantum computing and semiconductors to biotechnology, healthcare and clean energy.

Modi highlighted how India's startup revolution has moved beyond traditional technology sectors. He emphasised to innovations in artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, green hydrogen, battery technology and electric mobility. According to him, these technologies have the potential to transform everyday life and contribute to sustainable development.

The Prime Minister also spoke about the opportunities emerging from the ongoing digital revolution. He said technology should not only create economic value but also improve the lives of people. He urged innovators, entrepreneurs and investors to focus on developing technologies that are trusted, inclusive and human-centric.

In one of the key messages of his address, Modi said startups should not be judged solely by their market valuation. He underlined their true success should also be measured by the positive impact they create on society.

The event attracted more than 350 leading investors and venture capitalists from around the world. For many participating startups, it provided an opportunity to connect with global funding networks and explore international partnerships. Modi also interacted directly with entrepreneurs and innovators working in frontier sectors such as quantum computing, semiconductors, defence technology, space research, biotechnology, med-tech, advanced materials and clean energy.

French President Emmanuel Macron also highlighted India's remarkable achievements across several sectors in recent years. Along with praising the Chandrayaan-3 lunar landing, he spoke about India's rapid progress in digital innovation, renewable energy, startup growth and technological advancement. He said India's success has demonstrated how innovation can be used to solve real-world challenges at scale. Referring to the country's growing global influence, Macron described India as a key partner in shaping the technologies and solutions of the future. His remarks underscored the confidence that many global leaders and investors now place in India's innovation-driven growth story.

As Bharat Innovates 2026 unfolded in Nice, the message from India was clear. The country is not only building one of the world's largest startup ecosystems but is also positioning itself as a global innovation hub. Through collaboration, technology and entrepreneurship, India hopes to play a larger role in shaping the future of the global economy.

The warmth between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron was visible throughout the Bharat Innovates 2026 summit in Nice. As the two leaders jointly inaugurated the event, Macron congratulated Modi on becoming India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister. The gesture reflected not only personal camaraderie but also the growing strength of the India-France strategic partnership. Modi thanked Macron for his gracious presence and support, while both leaders reiterated their commitment to deeper cooperation in innovation, technology, clean energy and global development. Their interaction added a diplomatic touch to an event focused on shaping the future through innovation and entrepreneurship.