New Delhi: In a high-profile meeting on Thursday evening, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates convened in the National Capital to deliberate on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its potential for advancing public welfare. Gates, during his visit to India, expressed his admiration for PM Modi, stating, “It is always inspiring to meet with @narendramodi, and there was a lot to discuss. We talked about AI for the public good.” Gates commended India’s remarkable strides in AI, emphasizing the country’s pivotal role in shaping the global AI landscape.
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The discussion extended to Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and other developmental initiatives, with Gates highlighting India’s innovative endeavours in areas such as women-led development, agriculture, health, and climate adaptation. He underscored the importance of drawing insights from India’s experiences to benefit the world at large.
Prime Minister Modi echoed Gates’ sentiments, describing the meeting as “wonderful” and emphasising the shared commitment to sectors that can enhance the well-being of people worldwide. During the engagement, Gates also met with several Union Ministers, engaging in fruitful exchanges and even swapping books with S Jaishankar, symbolizing a mutual exchange of ideas and knowledge. Gates expressed optimism about India’s future, applauding the nation’s progress across various domains and particularly commending its robust vaccination initiatives, which have significantly contributed to reducing child mortality rates.
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Having arrived in India earlier in the week, Gates embarked on a comprehensive itinerary, including interactions with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in Odisha and engaging with communities supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. His humanitarian efforts were further recognised through the KISS Humanitarian Award 2023, honouring his tireless contributions to global health, education, and climate change mitigation.
Amidst his busy schedule, Gates also indulged in impromptu conversations, such as with a tea seller from Nagpur, appreciating local ingenuity. Looking ahead, Gates is set to partake in the extravagant pre-wedding festivities of Mukesh Ambani’s youngest son, underscoring his enduring connection with India’s social and cultural fabric.