Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed one of the most pressing anxieties of the modern era: the fear among the youth that artificial intelligence will lead to widespread job displacement. Acknowledging
these concerns with empathy in a comprehensive interview with ANI around the India AI Impact Summit 2026, the Prime Minister asserted that “preparation is the best antidote to fear”. He outlined a vision where AI acts as a partner to human intelligence rather than a replacement for it.
A Historical Perspective on Innovation
The Prime Minister drew parallels with past technological revolutions, noting that history has consistently shown that innovation does not eliminate work; it transforms its nature. He reminded the youth that for centuries, every major breakthrough—from the Industrial Revolution to the birth of the internet—was met with similar scepticism regarding the future of employment. However, in each instance, new sectors emerged that were previously unimaginable. “Whenever innovation happens, new opportunities emerge,” he noted, expressing confidence that the age of AI would follow this same trajectory by creating entirely new categories of high-quality tech jobs.
AI as a Force Multiplier
Central to the Prime Minister’s argument is the concept of AI as a “force multiplier.” He explained that instead of making professionals redundant, AI will empower them to reach greater heights. He cited examples of how doctors, teachers, and lawyers can leverage these tools to assist larger groups of people with greater precision and efficiency. In this context, AI is viewed as a servant of human dignity that enhances human capability, allowing the workforce to focus on high-value, creative, and empathetic tasks while automation handles the routine.
Proactive Skilling and Global Standing
To ensure that India’s demographic dividend is protected, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s massive investment in “skilling and re-skilling”. He stated that the administration is treating AI-driven disruption as a “present imperative” rather than a future problem. The success of this proactive approach is already visible on the global stage; the Prime Minister referenced the Stanford Global AI Vibrancy Index 2025, where India ranked 3rd globally, reflecting the country’s robust growth in AI talent and research.
By combining innovation with inclusion, the Prime Minister assured the younger generation that they are well-equipped to adapt. He concluded that with the right skills and the support of the IndiaAI Mission, the youth of India will not just survive the AI revolution but will lead the future of work on a global scale.
