Bharat Innovates 2026: Celebrating India-France Partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the Bharat Innovates 2026 conclave in Nice on Sunday. This three-day event, running from June 14-16, aims to strengthen collaboration in technology and innovation between India, France, and other nations. More than 120 Indian deep-tech startups and over 15 higher education and research institutions, including IITs, are participating in the conclave.
During his address, PM Modi emphasized that the India-France relationship transcends traditional trade and strategic partnerships. He stated that their ties are driven by shared values and a common vision, which have led to innovative solutions for global challenges.
Macron Praises India’s Innovation Ecosystem
President Macron expressed his honor in hosting the first Bharat Innovates event outside India and congratulated PM Modi on his tenure as India’s longest-serving Prime Minister. He remarked, “The question was not whether India is innovating, but who will innovate with India.” Macron highlighted India’s technological achievements, including the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission, which he said showcased India’s capabilities in innovation and execution.
Macron also noted the strong partnership between India and France in critical sectors like artificial intelligence and climate change. He mentioned the potential for further collaboration in civil nuclear energy, particularly with Small Modular Reactors.
Innovation at the Center of Strategic Partnership
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the conclave occurs amid significant geopolitical shifts and technological transformations. He pointed out that India’s startup ecosystem, with over 230,000 startups, has fostered a culture of innovation. Goyal invited French businesses to engage with India by investing, designing, innovating, and manufacturing in the country.
The conclave is set to showcase advancements in various fields, including advanced computing, semiconductors, space technology, defense, biotechnology, healthcare, and climate solutions.
Part of Wider France Visit
Before the inauguration, PM Modi met with venture capitalists, global investors, and leaders from the innovation ecosystem, including OYO founder Ritesh Agarwal and entrepreneur Ronnie Screwvala. This visit also marks the first bilateral summit between PM Modi and Macron since the elevation of their ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership” earlier this year. The leaders are expected to review progress made since February and discuss future cooperation in strategic and technological sectors. PM Modi arrived in France on Saturday and will later travel to Slovakia before returning for the G7 Summit in Evian and engagements in Paris.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
