Mumbai, Feb 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the world is currently confronting multiple challenges across diverse sectors, and Indian startups have the capability to offer meaningful solutions.

Speaking at the India–France Startup Forum in the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron, the Prime Minister highlighted that India has emerged as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. He expressed confidence that Indian innovators are well-positioned to tackle global issues through technology-driven and sustainable solutions.

The Prime Minister announced that India and France will reconvene in June under the ‘Bharat Innovates 2026’ initiative in France. The event will showcase some of India’s leading startups working in critical areas such as climate change, security, and healthcare.

He also noted that the Atal Innovation Mission will complete ten years on February 24. Over the past decade, more than 10,000 tinkering laboratories have been established under the mission, engaging over 10 million students in innovation and startup-related activities. Additionally, more than 100 incubators and numerous edtech startups are part of this initiative. He encouraged entrepreneurs to actively participate in the mission, describing startups as the driving force behind India’s aspiration to become a developed nation.

The Prime Minister said this year’s Union Budget places significant emphasis on strengthening the startup ecosystem. Plans include establishing ‘Content Creator Labs’ in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges to promote digital and creative entrepreneurship. Mission-driven initiatives are also underway in artificial intelligence, quantum technology, biotechnology, semiconductors, and clean energy. The government is further encouraging innovation in sectors such as textiles, chemicals, sports goods, electronics, and infrastructure.

He also underscored India’s growing reputation as a global model for women-led research and startup ventures.

Highlighting bilateral ties, the Prime Minister said the India–France partnership extends beyond startups and is rooted in shared values and mutual trust. In recognition of this collaboration, both leaders have declared 2026 as the ‘India–France Startup Year’. He added that cooperation in strategic technologies has elevated the relationship to a ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’.

President Emmanuel Macron, addressing the forum, observed that several major global corporations are led by Indian CEOs. He said India is not merely participating in the global startup movement but playing a leadership role. He stressed the importance of investing in education and skill development to sustain innovation.

President Macron pointed to the France–India Aeronautics Campus as a key platform for developing specialised skills. He remarked that the question is no longer whether India can innovate, but who will innovate alongside India — and affirmed France’s commitment to being that partner.

He expressed confidence in the enduring strength of India–France ties and announced that an ‘Innovation Day’ will be organised ahead of the upcoming G7 Summit, as proposed by Prime Minister Modi.

Under joint initiatives, France and India will bring together students and researchers to foster collaboration. In the defence sector, France continues to be a reliable partner in the ‘Make in India’ programme. With French cooperation, advanced engines, multi-role helicopters, fighter aircraft, and submarines are being developed.

President Macron described the partnership as more than defence contracts, calling it a sovereign strategic alliance built on trust across land, sea, and air. He also highlighted cooperation in the space sector, noting that the ‘TRISHNA’ satellite project exemplifies scientific excellence combined with industrial capability.