India Champions Human-Centric AI as PM Modi Unveils ‘MANAV’ Framework at Landmark Global Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveils the 'MANAV' framework at the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, calling for the democratization of artificial intelligence. The PM emphasized human-centric AI, national data sovereignty, and inclusion for the Global South to ensure technology serves as a tool for empowerment rather than a source of disruption.
At the heart of the Prime Minister’s keynote was the introduction of the ‘MANAV’ framework—a comprehensive governance blueprint designed to ensure that AI remains a servant of human progress rather than an autonomous force of disruption. The acronym outlines a five-pillar strategy: prioritizing Moral and ethical systems, ensuring Accountable governance with transparent oversight, upholding National data sovereignty, fostering Accessible and inclusive platforms to prevent monopolies, and maintaining Valid legal legitimacy under the rule of law. By emphasizing that data generated within a nation must remain under its own jurisdiction, the Prime Minister struck a chord on the sensitive issue of digital colonization, asserting that the benefits of AI must be distributed equitably across the globe rather than being hoarded by a few technological superpowers
The summit’s atmosphere was one of historic urgency, drawing over 200,000 participants and featuring industry luminaries such as Sundar Pichai, Sam Altman, and Jensen Huang. PM Modi drew parallels between the current AI revolution and humanity’s most foundational milestones, such as the discovery of fire and the invention of written scripts. However, he noted that the unprecedented speed and scale of AI’s expansion distinguish it from any prior technological shift. He argued that the transition from being "AI-centric" to "human-centric" is not merely a policy choice but a civilizational necessity. The Prime Minister’s rhetoric focused on transforming AI into a "multiplier" for empowerment, particularly for developing nations that have historically been sidelined during industrial and digital leaps
Beyond the high-level policy discussions, the Prime Minister highlighted the demographic advantage of the current era, noting the vibrant participation of young innovators who are embracing emerging technologies despite lingering global skepticism. He framed the ‘MANAV’ vision as the essential link for human welfare in the 21st century, suggesting that India’s leadership could provide the "right path" to turn potential disruption into a global solution process. As the summit continues, the emphasis remains on a collaborative international legal framework that balances innovation with accountability, ensuring that the digital future remains firmly under human control and serves the collective interest of a global population

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