India Showcases Bharat Innovates 2026 in Paris, Gears Up for Global Innovation Conclave in Nice

India has initiated a significant step towards fostering global collaboration in deep-tech innovation by pitching its ambitious programme, Bharat Innovates 2026, to investors and stakeholders in Paris. This strategic move precedes the upcoming conclave scheduled to take place in Nice, France, next month, underscoring India's commitment to leveraging its deep-tech startup ecosystem for international partnerships.

The roadshow in Paris brought together key representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Embassy of India in Paris, and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), along with over 50 participants from the vibrant French business and innovation landscape. Notable French businesses and ecosystems such as La French Tech, VivaTech, ESCP Business School, ESSEC, INRIA, and members of the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce were among the attendees, highlighting the breadth of interest in India's deep-tech sector.

The event served as a pivotal platform for briefing potential investors and partners on the objectives, scope, and investment opportunities associated with Bharat Innovates 2026. K.M. Praphullachandra Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Education, emphasized the program's significance in strengthening international collaboration, particularly under the India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership. This partnership aims to facilitate cooperation in areas such as education, research, and innovation, paving the way for mutual growth and development.

Govind Jaiswal, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Education, presented an overview of the opportunities available for French and global investors to engage with India's rapidly expanding innovation ecosystem. The focus areas for Bharat Innovates 2026 include 13 frontier technology sectors, such as advanced computing, semiconductors, next-generation communications, advanced materials and critical minerals, biotechnology, space and defence, and manufacturing under Industry 4.0. This diverse range of sectors underscores India's ambition to be at the forefront of global technological advancements.

The maiden edition of Bharat Innovates 2026 is set to bring India's top 120 deep-tech startups to France, aiming to catalyse pilots, co-development, investments, research partnerships, manufacturing, and market access. This initiative was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 17 during the inauguration of the India-France Year of Innovation, in the presence of the French President, marking a significant moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

Set to take place from June 14-16 at the Palais des Expositions in Nice, France, Bharat Innovates 2026 is poised to be a landmark event in the global innovation calendar. It represents a concerted effort by India to position itself as a hub for deep-tech innovation, offering unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, investment, and growth. As the global economy continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements, India's proactive approach to fostering innovation and international partnerships places it in a strong position to lead in the future.