During his US visit, Prime Minister Modi meets top tech CEOs to discuss innovation and opportunities, while highlighting India’s advancements in technology

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a pivotal roundtable discussion with leading technology executives in New York as part of his three-day visit to the United States. The meeting, which took place on the second day of his visit, included prominent figures such as Adobe’s Shantanu Narayen, Google’s Sundar Pichai, IBM’s Arvind Krishna, AMD’s Lisa Su, and Moderna’s Noubar Afeyan.

In a social media post, PM Modi described the gathering as “fruitful,” stating, “We discussed aspects relating to technology, innovation, and more. I am glad to see immense optimism towards India.” The roundtable aimed to explore the vast potential and opportunities that India presents in the tech sector.

The meeting follows a bilateral discussion between Modi and U.S. President Joe Biden, where both leaders commended their collaborative efforts to establish resilient semiconductor supply chains. They specifically highlighted GlobalFoundries’ creation of the GF Kolkata Power Center, which aims to strengthen research and development in chip manufacturing in India.

A joint fact sheet released by the White House outlined recent advancements in private-sector cooperation on emerging technologies. Notably, IBM has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian government to integrate its Watsonx platform with India’s Airawat supercomputer, fostering AI innovation and enhancing collaboration on advanced semiconductor processors. The partnership also aims to support India’s National Quantum Mission, further cementing ties between the two nations.

The dialogue builds on previous initiatives, including the “Innovation Handshake” agenda established after the November 2023 signing of an MoU between the U.S. Commerce Department and India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Since then, both countries have conducted two industry roundtables to enhance connections between startups, venture capital firms, and government officials, facilitating investment in innovation.

On the first day of his visit, Modi participated in the fourth Quad Leaders’ Summit, hosted by President Biden in Wilmington, Delaware. The leaders agreed to India hosting the next Quad Summit in 2025, underscoring the forum’s importance in promoting peace and progress in the Indo-Pacific region.

During his stay in New York, Modi also addressed a large gathering of the Indian community, emphasizing India’s role on the global stage. On the final day of his visit, he is scheduled to speak at the ‘Summit of the Future’ during the United Nations General Assembly, focusing on multilateral solutions for a better tomorrow.

Analysis

Political Perspective

PM Modi’s meetings with tech CEOs signal a strategic approach to fortify India’s position as a global technology leader. By engaging with top executives, he not only promotes India’s technological advancements but also seeks to attract foreign investment. The emphasis on semiconductor supply chains reflects a broader geopolitical narrative, where nations are competing to secure their technological futures. The collaboration with U.S. tech companies underlines a significant shift towards cooperative governance, with both countries benefiting from mutual interests in innovation and security.

Social Perspective

Modi’s visit highlights the growing importance of technology in addressing societal challenges, particularly in sectors like healthcare and education. By fostering discussions around emerging technologies, the government aims to leverage innovation to improve the quality of life for its citizens. The emphasis on biotechnology and AI also resonates with the aspirations of a youthful demographic eager for job opportunities and advancements in their communities.

Racial Perspective

The focus on technology and innovation has implications for India’s diverse population. Access to advanced technology can help bridge socio-economic divides, promoting inclusivity. However, the government must ensure that the benefits of these advancements are equitably distributed, particularly among marginalized communities who often lack access to technological resources and education.

Gender Perspective

The tech industry has historically been male-dominated, and Modi’s discussions with influential female leaders like Lisa Su could serve as a catalyst for increased gender diversity in Indian tech. Promoting women in leadership roles within technology could enhance innovation and drive economic growth, aligning with global trends toward inclusivity in the workplace.

Economic Perspective

The discussions at the roundtable underscore the economic implications of India’s technological trajectory. With investments in semiconductor manufacturing and AI, India is positioning itself as a key player in the global supply chain. The collaboration with major U.S. firms can lead to job creation and boost local economies. However, the government must navigate challenges such as regulatory hurdles and infrastructure development to realize these economic benefits fully.

As PM Modi continues his engagements in the U.S., the outcomes of these discussions could significantly impact India’s economic landscape, technological innovation, and its role in the global economy. The focus on collaboration between the U.S. and India sets a precedent for future partnerships that prioritize shared growth and development.