Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the ‘Bharat Innovates 2026’ conclave in Nice, marking a major step forward in India-France cooperation in innovation, technology and research-driven industries.
The event brought startups, investors, policymakers, industry leaders, and research institutions from India together with France and several other countries to strengthen collaboration in emerging sectors. More than 120 Indian deep-tech startups and over 15 higher education and research institutions participated in the conclave.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi said the India-France partnership has evolved beyond traditional trade and strategic cooperation into a relationship driven by innovation, shared values and a common vision for the future. He added that innovation has become embedded in India’s growth story and highlighted the country’s rapid rise in technologies and research.
French President Emmanuel Macron praised India’s growing innovation ecosystem and described it as an honour to host the first Bharat Innovates event outside India. Referring to India’s technological progress, Macron pointed to the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission as an example of the country’s execution capabilities and scientific advancement.
The leaders also discussed expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, climate technology, semiconductors, civil nuclear energy and small modular reactors. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the event comes at a time when geopolitical and technological shifts are reshaping the global economy, making innovation partnerships increasingly important.
The conclave is expected to strengthen collaboration between Indian and French startups, research institutions, and industries, while opening new opportunities in advanced computing, defence technology, biotech, and healthcare solutions.
