VivaTech 2026

Context

Prime Minister of India, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, participated in VivaTech 2026 in Paris, France. The visit underscored India's commitment to human-centric Artificial Intelligence (AI) and strengthened bilateral cooperation between India and France in the fields of digital technology, innovation and startups.

About the News

Background

Viva Technology (VivaTech) is Europe's largest startup and technology event and one of the world's premier platforms for innovation and digital transformation. Established in 2016 by Publicis Groupe and Les Echos–Le Parisien, it serves as an open innovation ecosystem connecting startups, investors, industry leaders and policymakers.

The 2026 edition assumed special significance as India and France celebrated the India–France Year of Innovation.

Key Features of VivaTech 2026

Large-Scale Global Participation

• The event witnessed participation from approximately:
  • 180,000 attendees
  • 14,000 startups
  • 4,000 partners
  • 450 global speakers
• It was held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.

India as the Official AI Partner Country

• India was designated as the Official AI Partner Country for the 2026 edition.
• Earlier, India became the first "Country of the Year" at VivaTech in 2022.

India's Largest-Ever Pavilion

• The 1,000-square-metre India Pavilion, managed by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), showcased innovations in:
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • SpaceTech
  • HealthTech
  • CleanTech

Deep-Tech Showcase

• More than 80 Indian deep-tech startups and innovators demonstrated scalable solutions in:
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)
  • Mobility
  • Emerging technologies

Women-Led Startup Collaboration

• The pavilion featured a joint India–France initiative involving 10 women-led startups, promoting innovation, market access and technological collaboration.

Significance

Human-Centric AI Leadership

• India advocated an ethical, inclusive and open-source approach to Artificial Intelligence.
• The emphasis was on public welfare, healthcare, digital inclusion and multilingual accessibility.

Showcasing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

• India presented successful Digital Public Infrastructure models such as:
  • Digital payments
  • Digital identity
  • Agriculture technology platforms
• These models were highlighted as scalable solutions for developing countries.

Strengthening India–France Innovation Partnership

• VivaTech strengthened institutional collaboration between French innovation ecosystems and Indian technology hubs.
• Cooperation was expanded through partnerships with platforms such as the Bengaluru Tech Summit.

Promoting Startup Ecosystems

• The event enhanced opportunities for Indian startups to access global investors, technology partners and international markets.