Addressing a press conference on the sidelines of the WEF Annual Meeting, Vaishnaw said there was “a lot of curiosity in the world” about India’s approach to technology adoption, particularly its emphasis on using AI and digital platforms to drive broad-based growth rather than concentrate gains among a few.
Vaishnaw said that democratisation of technology is the right way forward, adding that India’s experience shows how advanced technologies can be combined with inclusive growth models to deliver benefits at scale.
The minister said India’s presence at Davos was being “strongly felt”, with Indian representatives participating in all major discussions to explain how the country is blending cutting-edge technology with equitable development. India’s leadership in areas such as digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence and semiconductors has drawn recognition from global industry leaders, he added.
Vaishnaw said top semiconductor executives attending meetings at Davos had praised India’s progress in building its chip ecosystem, while similar appreciation was expressed for the country’s work on AI and technology-led governance.
Alongside Vaishnaw, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said India’s engagement at Davos was increasingly translating into concrete outcomes, including the signing of memorandum of understandings and strategic partnerships. Maharashtra, he said, had entered into several knowledge and strategic collaborations this year, including in areas such as medical technology.
“These delegations help India get a stage at a global level,” said Fadnavis, adding that states were leveraging Davos to learn global best practices and attract investment.Vaishnaw also underlined the centre’s push for cooperative federalism, saying the government welcomed greater participation by states in global forums such as Davos. This year, ten Indian states are represented at the WEF.
“The more the number of states, the better,” he said, noting that the centre facilitates meetings between state delegations and global business leaders.
On trade and geopolitics, Vaishnaw said India was “deeply engaged with all major economies on practically all fronts”, while clarifying that Davos was primarily a platform for dialogue and idea-sharing rather than formal trade negotiations.
“We are a trusted partner to the world,” the minister said, reiterating India’s intent to remain actively engaged in shaping global technology and supply chain conversations.
The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, being held from January 19 to 23 under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue”, has brought together nearly 3,000 participants from over 130 countries, including world leaders, CEOs, policymakers and innovators. (With inputs from PTI and ANI)