Key Highlights
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated the 'Bharat Innovates 2026' conclave in Nice, France, on Sunday, June 14, 2026. The event serves as a major global platform bringing together leading startups, innovators, and venture capital funds from India, France, and several other countries.
Details of the Event
Upon arrival in Nice, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by President Macron with a hug and a handshake, setting the tone for a key bilateral engagement. The two leaders then proceeded to inaugurate the 'Bharat Innovates' event, which aims to showcase India's growing deep-tech and startup capabilities on the global stage.
During the event, PM Modi emphasized the strength of the India-France partnership, stating, "India, France have a special partnership; it has connection, conviction, innovation, inspiration and shared vision." He further noted that India's young innovators are finding solutions that can benefit all of humanity.
PM Modi highlighted India's transformation from a consumer of solutions to a contributor, saying, "India has emerged not as consumer of solutions but as contributor to solutions in the world. Innovation is in India's DNA." He added, "India is innovating for a sustainable future; India is innovating for the world."
French President's Remarks
President Macron expressed respect for India's Make-in-India initiative, stating, "We respect Make-in-India initiative; France has been part of it in diverse sectors." He described India as a country of innovation and noted the true partnership between the two nations in critical sectors like artificial intelligence (AI) and climate change.
Macron also highlighted the potential for expanded bilateral cooperation in civil nuclear energy, particularly in the area of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
Interaction with Innovators and Investors
Prior to the inauguration, PM Modi interacted with leading venture capitalists, global investors, and innovation ecosystem leaders. Among those present were Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal and Principal Scientific Advisor Ajay Kumar Sood. The Prime Minister engaged with prominent Indian entrepreneurs including OYO Rooms CEO Ritesh Agarwal and Ronnie Screwvala, along with several global investors.
Impact and Significance
The 'Bharat Innovates 2026' conclave underscores India's commitment to fostering innovation and deep-tech entrepreneurship. It provides a platform for Indian startups to connect with global investors and partners, enhancing India's reputation as a hub for cutting-edge solutions. The event also strengthens the strategic partnership between India and France, particularly in technology and innovation sectors.
What Readers Should Know
- The event was held in Nice, France, on June 14, 2026.
- It was jointly inaugurated by PM Modi and President Macron.
- The conclave focuses on deep-tech startups and innovation.
- Key themes included AI, climate change, and civil nuclear energy cooperation.
- Indian entrepreneurs like Ritesh Agarwal and Ronnie Screwvala participated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bharat Innovates 2026?
It is a global deep-tech event jointly inaugurated by PM Modi and French President Macron in Nice, France, to showcase Indian startups and innovation.
When and where was Bharat Innovates 2026 held?
The event was held on June 14, 2026, in Nice, France.
What did PM Modi say at the event?
PM Modi highlighted that India has emerged as a contributor to global solutions, and innovation is in India's DNA.
What did French President Macron say?
Macron praised the Make-in-India initiative and emphasized expanding cooperation in AI, climate change, and civil nuclear energy.