Kashmir Impulse Desk

Nice, June 14

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday inaugurated Bharat Innovates 2026, a technology and innovation showcase aimed at deepening cooperation between the two countries in emerging technologies and advanced research.

The three-day event, held in the southern French city of Nice as part of the India-France Year of Innovation, brings together Indian start-ups, researchers, investors and technology institutions with global venture capital firms and innovation stakeholders.

More than 120 start-ups and over 20 research institutions are participating across sectors including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, biotechnology, defence technology, healthcare, clean energy and advanced materials.

Addressing the gathering, Modi described India and France as trusted partners working together to address global challenges through innovation and technological cooperation.

He highlighted joint initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and ongoing collaboration in artificial intelligence and Indo-Pacific security, saying the relationship had expanded beyond traditional diplomatic engagement.

Modi urged innovators and investors to focus on technologies that are inclusive, trusted and centred on human welfare.

“Start-ups should be evaluated not only by their valuation but also by their contribution to humanity,” he said.

The two leaders later toured the exhibition and interacted with innovators working in frontier technologies.

India and France have significantly expanded cooperation in recent years across defence, nuclear energy, climate action, space exploration and emerging technologies.