NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates engaged in a compelling discussion covering a range of critical issues from Artificial Intelligence (AI) to climate change mitigation and women’s empowerment. The leaders offered insights into the convergence of technology, sustainability, and social empowerment on the global stage.
Bill Gates lauded India’s technological advancements, highlighting the nation’s pivotal role in AI innovation.While, PM Modi underscored the intrinsic link between AI and everyday life, humorously remarking on a child’s first cries and the significance of ‘AI’ in Indian society.
The conversation between the leaders further delved into India’s strategic focus on AI, exemplified by the recent approval of the comprehensive IndiaAI mission with a substantial budget allocation.
This mission aims to foster a robust AI ecosystem through strategic partnerships and initiatives across sectors, driving innovation and inclusive development.
PM Modi also highlighted initiatives aimed at empowering women, citing the transformative Namo Drone Didi program, which equips women with drone piloting skills, thereby fostering economic independence and rural development.
The discussion further underscored India’s ambitious climate commitments, including the “Panchamrit” pledge announced at the COP26 summit.
PM Modi also showed a jacket made from recycled materials, symbolizing India’s commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Here are the key points from their discussion-
PM Modi and Bill Gates discuss 2023 G20 Summit
PM Modi said, “..We had extensive discussions before the G20 Summit and as you might have seen, the Summit’s proceedings took a lot of turns. I believe we have now aligned with G20’s core purposes & objectives, bringing them to the mainstream. I hope your first-hand experience echoes this sentiment.”
Bill Gates said, “G20 is way more inclusive and so it is fantastic to see India hosting it – really raised things like digital innovations and how the south-south collaboration can be far more than just the dialogue with the north…Our foundation is so excited about the past results that you have achieved here in India, that we would be a partner in trying to take that into many other countries.”
The leaders discuss the digital revolution in India
PM Modi said, “During the G20 Summit in Indonesia, representatives from around the world expressed their curiosity about the digital revolution in the country. I explained to them that we have democratised technology to prevent monopoly. It is by the people and for the people..”
Bill Gates said, “In here, it is like Digital Government. India is not only adapting technology but it is actually leading the way…”
“What are some of the technological advancements you are most excited about?” Bill Gates asks PM Modi
“Health, agriculture and education. I have built 2 lakh Arogya Mandir Health Centers in villages and linked them with best hospitals with the help of modern technology,” PM Modi said.
PM also spoke about ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme
PM said, “When I used to hear about the digital divide in the world, I used to think that I would not allow anything like that to happen in my country. Digital public infrastructure is a major requirement in itself…Women are more open to adopting new technology in India…I have started ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme…This is going on very successfully. I interact with them these days, they are delighted. They say that they didn’t know to ride a bicycle but they are now pilots and can fly drones. The mindset has changed.”