Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bill Gates came together for an engaging and insightful exchange. The conversation spanned a range of topics, including the future of Artificial Intelligence, the importance of Digital Public Infrastructure, and vaccination programs in India. In the conversation, Bill Gates praised Indians for their ability to adopt technology fast as well as lead the way while PM Modi encouraged the Microsoft boss to take a selfie using the Photo Booth on PM’s Namo App.
PM Modi articulated his vision for a digitally inclusive India, emphasizing his commitment to preventing a digital divide by extending infrastructure to the remotest villages. He shared anecdotes from the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme, highlighting the transformative power of technology in changing mindsets and empowering women.
He 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.”
Bill Gates expressed admiration for India’s rapid technological adoption and innovation, particularly in the context of Green GDP and sustainable development. The dialogue also touched upon the use of AI in translating languages, showcasing India’s advancements during international events like the G20 Summit and the Kashi Tamil Sangamam.
PM Modi also emphasized the importance of AI in modern governance but cautioned against its misuse, stating that AI should not become a tool for the lazy. He highlighted the need for AI to complement human effort rather than replace it.
The conversation was a blend of serious discussion and light-hearted moments, with PM Modi inviting Bill Gates to explore the features of the NaMo App and even suggesting they take a selfie using the app’s Photo Booth function.
PM Modi also told Bill Gates how he AI was used during 2023 G20 Summit. He also shared that his Hindi speech was translated into Tamil during Kashi Tamil Sangamam event using AI.
PM Modi said, “Historically, during the first and second industrial revolutions we lagged behind because we were a colony. Now, in the midst of a fourth industrial revolution, the digital element is at its core. I am confident that India will gain a lot in this. AI is very important. Sometimes, I jokingly say that in our country, we call our mother ‘Aai’. Now I say that when a child is born, he says ‘Aai’ as well as AI as children have become so advanced.”
