New Delhi, Feb 19 (NationPress) On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced a thorough and human-focused strategy, called MANAV, for Artificial Intelligence (AI). He urged the global community to find a balance between innovation and responsibility while crafting the future of AI.

During the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, the Prime Minister remarked that the world has a "grand vision and an equally significant responsibility" in the age of AI.

"We must consider not only the current generation but also the AI legacy we will pass on to future generations. Thus, the pressing question today isn't about AI's potential in the future. It’s about how we handle AI today. Humanity has faced such dilemmas before, with nuclear power being a prime example. We've witnessed both its destructive capabilities and its positive contributions," he stated.

Labeling AI as a transformative force, PM Modi warned against its potential misuse.

"AI is a transformative power. If it lacks direction, it can lead to destruction; however, if guided correctly, it can offer solutions," he emphasized, highlighting the necessity for responsible and ethical technology usage.

The Prime Minister unveiled what he referred to as the 'MANAV' vision for AI, positioning it as India's human-centered framework for the 21st Century.

"We must allow AI to have an open sky, yet maintain control. Just as GPS suggests a path, the ultimate decision remains ours. The direction we steer AI today will shape our tomorrow. Friends, at the New Delhi AI Impact Summit, I present the 'MANAV' vision for AI—MANAV signifies a human-centric Indian vision for AI," he articulated.

Elucidating the acronym, he explained, "M stands for Moral & Ethical Systems, ensuring AI is driven by ethics and human values; A for Accountable Governance, emphasizing transparent rules, rigorous oversight, and national sovereignty, where data ownership equates to rights; N for Accessible and Inclusive, preventing AI from becoming a monopoly, but rather a gateway to opportunities; A for Valued and Legitimate, ensuring AI is lawful, reliable, and socially accepted; and V for a Vision for Humanity, with AI's ultimate goal being the betterment of humanity."

"India's MANAV Vision aims to provide significant guidance for human welfare in an AI-driven world of the 21st Century. The future of technology will be dictated not by machines but by human virtues," he added.

Stressing the importance of transparency, PM Modi noted it as a protective measure in AI development.

"It is often said, 'Sunlight is the best disinfectant', highlighting that transparency is the best safeguard. While some nations and corporations view AI as a strategic asset requiring confidentiality, India holds a different stance," he remarked.

"We believe AI will truly benefit global interests only when shared, when codes are open, and when innovation is collaborative. Only then can countless bright minds enhance it to be better and safer. Let us commit to developing AI as a global common good," he added.

Calling for the establishment of global standards, the Prime Minister alerted about emerging dangers like deepfakes and altered digital content.

"There is an urgent need to establish worldwide standards. Deepfakes and misleading content can threaten open societies. In the physical realm, nutrition labels on food inform us about our consumption. Similarly, in the digital realm, content should bear authenticity labels," he stated.

"People must distinguish between what is real and what is AI-generated. As AI produces text, images, and videos, the demand for watermarking and clear source standards will increase. Trust must be embedded in technology from the outset," he added.

Addressing concerns regarding child safety, PM Modi asserted that protections within the AI ecosystem must be heightened.

"We must remain vigilant regarding child safety. Just as school curricula are curated, the AI landscape must be child-safe and guided by family values," he remarked.

On the broader perspective of AI, the Prime Minister said, "Today, there are two types of people: those who fear AI and those who see potential. I confidently state—India does not fear AI, we perceive opportunity and envision our future with AI."

"We possess talent, energy, capacity, and clear policies," he added.

"I am delighted to announce that three Indian companies have launched their AI models and applications at this Summit. These models showcase the depth and diversity of India's youth talent and the innovative solutions India offers to the world," he concluded.