NEW DELHI: Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and noted philanthropist, met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to explore a variety of subjects, encompassing artificial intelligence (AI), healthcare, and agriculture. Their discussion highlighted India’s technological growth and its developmental vision for the year 2047.
Gates shared on platform X, commending India’s advancements across multiple domains. "I had a wonderful discussion about India’s development journey, the roadmap to Viksit Bharat 2047, and the thrilling developments in health, agriculture, AI, and other sectors that are making a difference today. It’s inspiring to observe how innovation in India is propelling progress both locally and globally," Gates remarked.
In a response on X, PM Modi termed the meeting as "excellent," emphasizing their conversations on technology, innovation, and sustainability. "It’s always a pleasure to meet you, Bill Gates! Our discussions about innovation, sustainability, and the journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047 were enriching. India is dedicated to utilizing technology for a brighter future for everyone," PM Modi posted.
Engagements with Influential Leaders
During his stay in India, Gates also interacted with numerous senior officials. He conferred with Union Health Minister J P Nadda to evaluate the partnership between the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Indian government in bolstering healthcare systems. Nadda acknowledged substantial advancements made in maternal health, immunization, and sanitation, supported by the foundation’s initiatives. "We are eager to renew our memorandum of cooperation, furthering our mutual commitment to providing affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare for all citizens," Nadda expressed on X.
Additionally, Gates met with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, exploring the potential of AI and predictive analytics in enhancing service delivery across healthcare, education, and agriculture. Naidu voiced optimism that the Gates Foundation’s backing would assist in achieving the state’s long-term developmental objective, ‘Swarna Andhra Pradesh 2047.’
Moreover, Gates connected with Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw. Vaishnaw noted on X, "AI solutions for improved crops, enhanced healthcare, smarter education, and climate resilience—an MoU is on the horizon between the India AI Mission and the Gates Foundation."
Gates also made a visit to Parliament, where the Budget Session was underway. Earlier in the week, he met with Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan to discuss the applications of AI and machine learning in agriculture, alongside conversations on food security and rural development. The Gates Foundation has actively collaborated with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, with new avenues for collaboration in the pipeline.
