Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron launched the Bharat Innovates 2026 event in Nice, France, on Sunday [1, 2].

The summit signals a strategic shift toward deep-tech cooperation between India and France. By presenting Indian startups to global investors, the two nations aim to deepen a bilateral partnership rooted in high-technology, and innovation [1, 2].

The event, which spans three days [2], serves as a showcase for 120 Indian deep-tech start-ups [2]. These companies represent the cutting edge of Indian engineering and software development, seeking to scale their operations through European partnerships and capital [1, 2].

During the launch, Modi and Macron interacted with various innovators and industry leaders to discuss the future of technological collaboration [1, 2]. The engagement focuses on creating a bridge between the Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem and French industrial capabilities, a move intended to accelerate the growth of emerging technologies in both regions [1, 2].

The event is part of a broader six-day visit to France by the Indian Prime Minister [3]. This diplomatic tour emphasizes the strategic alignment of the two countries across multiple sectors, including defense and green energy, while placing innovation at the center of the current agenda [1, 2].

By hosting the showcase in Nice, the initiative leverages France's position as a gateway to the European Union. The presence of both heads of state underscores the political will to transition the India-France relationship from traditional trade to a high-tech alliance [1, 2].

“The event, which spans three days, serves as a showcase for 120 Indian deep-tech start-ups.”

The launch of Bharat Innovates 2026 represents a targeted effort by India to export its deep-tech capabilities and attract foreign venture capital. By aligning with France, India gains a strategic entry point into the European market, while France secures access to India's rapidly expanding pool of tech talent and scalable digital solutions.