PM Modi described his meeting with the Microsoft co-founder as “excellent,” highlighting conversations on advancements in health, agriculture, artificial intelligence (AI), and other sectors that are shaping the future.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an insightful meeting with Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates, discussing a wide range of topics including technology, innovation, sustainability, and India’s development goals.
Taking to social media, PM Modi described the meeting as “excellent,” highlighting conversations on advancements in health, agriculture, artificial intelligence (AI), and other sectors that are shaping the future. “As always, an excellent meeting with Bill Gates. We spoke about diverse issues, including tech, innovation, and sustainability, towards creating a better future for the coming generations,” he posted on X.
Gates, currently on his third visit to India in three years, reaffirmed his admiration for the country’s rapid technological progress. “I had a great discussion with @narendramodi about India’s development, the path to Viksit Bharat 2047, and exciting advancements in health, agriculture, AI, and other sectors that are creating an impact today. It’s impressive to see how innovation in India is driving progress locally—and globally,” Gates wrote in a post on X.
The discussions centred on India’s ambitious ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision, a roadmap aimed at transforming India into a developed nation by its centenary year of Independence. AI and digital infrastructure were identified as key drivers in revolutionising healthcare, education, and agriculture, helping bridge gaps and enhance accessibility for millions.
The collaboration between the India AI Mission and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is expected to advance technological solutions that improve public services and create sustainable innovations. Gates’ visit also aligns with the 25th anniversary of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, marking a milestone in its global philanthropic efforts. This year, for the first time, the foundation’s Board of Trustees is convening in the Global South, with India as the focal point of its initiatives.
Gates’ engagements in India extended beyond his meeting with PM Modi. He also held discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on development challenges and the role of innovation in addressing them. “A thoughtful conversation with @BillGates on the sidelines of #Raisina2025. Discussed development challenges, the promise of innovation, and the relevance of India,” Jaishankar posted on X.
In addition, Gates met Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to explore advancements in agricultural development. Their talks focused on climate-resistant crops, biofortification, and AI-driven farming techniques aimed at empowering Indian farmers in the face of climate change. “The Gates Foundation is already working with us, and today we discussed where we can expand that collaboration,” Chouhan said after their meeting.
As India continues to drive innovation across sectors, Gates’ visit underscored the global significance of the country’s progress. The ongoing partnership between India and the Gates Foundation is poised to further strengthen efforts in harnessing technology for societal transformation, bringing long-term benefits to both India and the world.
