‘AI Must Empower, Not Manipulate’: PM Modi’s Strong Message at G7 Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday delivered a strong message on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the G7 Summit , warning that the technology could become a tool for misinformation, deepfakes and exploitation if adequate safeguards are not put in place.

Addressing a special outreach session on “Ensuring a Safe, Rapid and Efficient Rollout of AI,” Modi highlighted both the immense opportunities and growing challenges associated with artificial intelligence. He noted that AI has the potential to transform education, boost creativity and make learning more accessible, particularly for children studying in their native languages. However, he cautioned that the same technology can expose users, especially children, to harmful content, manipulation and online fraud.

“We must transform the digital space into a learning playground for children, not a tool for manipulation,” the Prime Minister said, calling for stronger international cooperation to tackle emerging threats posed by deepfakes, misinformation campaigns and cyber fraud .

Modi described AI as one of the most transformative technologies developed by humanity, but stressed that its true value should be measured by how much it empowers ordinary people rather than by the sophistication of machines. According to him, policies governing AI must remain rooted in human values, trust and ethical principles .

Emphasising India's vision for the future of technology, Modi referred to the country's ‘MANAV’ vision for AI, which promotes a human-centric approach to innovation. He said the human element must remain at the core of AI development, ensuring that technology enhances human capabilities, expands opportunities and safeguards dignity.

The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of global cybersecurity cooperation . He said no country can be fully secure in cyberspace unless all nations are secure, reiterating India's belief that cyberspace should be treated as a global public good . He urged democratic countries to collaborate in protecting critical digital infrastructure and countering rising cyber threats.

Advocating a “safe-by-design” AI approach , Modi called for common international standards, testing frameworks and regulatory mechanisms that allow innovation and governance to progress together. He also backed the use of technologies such as digital watermarking to combat deepfakes and stressed that the benefits of AI should reach developing nations and the Global South , making the technology a force for inclusion rather than division.

With AI increasingly shaping economies and societies worldwide, Modi's remarks reflected India's push for a future where technological innovation is guided by responsibility, security and the welfare of people.