Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed a major concern among India’s youth and workforce whether artificial intelligence (AI) will take away jobs during an interview at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Modi emphasised that AI will not eliminate jobs but will change their nature while creating new opportunities, especially for skilled workers.
The AI Impact Summit a five day global event hosted at Bharat Mandapam has drawn leaders, innovators and policymakers from around the world to discuss AI governance, economic opportunities and workforce preparedness.
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Concern Over AI and Jobs Modi’s Message
In an exclusive interview with ANI, Modi acknowledged that fears about AI displacing jobs are understandable but not inevitable. He said the government is actively focusing on making India’s workforce future ready through extensive skilling and reskilling initiatives, arguing that preparation is the best antidote to fear in an AI driven era.
Modi described AI as a potential “force multiplier” that can enhance productivity and expand human capability, not replace it. He emphasised that work historically does not disappear due to technology, but evolves, with new opportunities emerging alongside technological change.
Government’s Focus on Skilling and Reskilling
To ensure India’s youth benefit from the AI revolution rather than fear it, the prime minister highlighted government programmes aimed at equipping people with relevant skills. These include digital literacy, domain specific AI training and support for startups leveraging AI technologies.
Modi stressed that with the right training and mindset, young Indians can lead the future of work adapting to new roles that AI may enable across sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and software development.
AI’s Role in Economic and Social Development
Beyond job concerns, Modi reiterated India’s broader vision for AI, positioning the country as a hub for inclusive and human centric AI development. He encouraged innovation that serves social welfare, stating that AI should help extend healthcare, education and economic opportunities to all citizens.
This vision aligns with India’s long term goals including becoming a global leader in AI and ensuring technological advances contribute to overall national development.
Context AI Summit and Global Debate
The AI Impact Summit 2026 brings together policymakers, industry leaders and experts to discuss the future of AI in an era of rapid technological change. The event has become a platform for debating AI governance, ethical frameworks, labour market transformation, and the role of emerging economies in shaping global AI norms.
Experts attending the summit have echoed Modi’s view that while AI may modify job roles and environments, continuous learning and adaptation will be crucial for workforce success. Leaders have stressed the importance of collaboration between governments, businesses and educational institutions to ensure that AI augments human potential.
Looking Ahead AI and Future of Work
As AI technologies mature, the emphasis in India is on empowering people through skill development and innovation rather than resisting change. Policymakers believe that with proactive preparation and responsible governance, AI can be a net creator of jobs and economic value.
The prime minister’s message reflects a wider global conversation on how nations can balance technological adoption with inclusive growth ensuring that digital transformation benefits all sections of society.
