Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates engaged in a comprehensive dialogue, delving into India’s inclusive digital vision and the critical issues surrounding technological advancements and digital transformation strategies. The dialogue, which covered a wide array of topics, highlighted India’s unique approach to the digital revolution and its commitment to democratising technology.
During the discussion, PM Modi underscored India’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that technological advancements are accessible to all segments of society. He elaborated on India’s model, which aims to prevent monopolies and foster a sense of ownership and trust among the populace. Emphasising inclusivity, PM Modi articulated how India leverages technology as a catalyst for societal empowerment and progress, particularly in sectors such as health, agriculture, and education.
PM Modi showcased India’s remarkable progress in establishing Ayushman Arogya Mandir Health Centers in rural areas, interconnected with urban hospitals through modern technology. He also highlighted the transformative potential of technology in revolutionising education and enhancing agricultural practices, demonstrating India’s commitment to addressing fundamental societal challenges through innovation.
Moreover, PM Modi outlined his vision of extending digital facilities to every village in India and emphasised the pivotal role of women in driving technological advancements. He unveiled the Namo Drone Didi scheme aimed at empowering women-led self-help groups with drone technology, fostering economic empowerment and innovation among rural women.
Addressing concerns surrounding data privacy and security, PM Modi showcased India’s robust legal framework and emphasised the importance of public awareness and simplified compliance measures. He reiterated India’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance service delivery and improve citizens’ quality of life while safeguarding their data rights.
In response to Bill Gates’s query on data utilisation without compromising privacy, PM Modi outlined a multifaceted approach, stressing the need for public education on data contribution and transparent intentions behind data requests. He underscored India’s commitment to ethical data practices and prioritising research for the global good.
Reflecting on the government’s role in fostering technological innovation, PM Modi unveiled India’s ambitious plans to invest in environment-friendly solutions and promote research and development in future technologies. He highlighted India’s recent budget announcement of Rs 1 lakh crore to boost technological innovation, showcasing the government’s unwavering commitment to nurturing a conducive ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.