Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly inaugurated the Bharat Innovates 2026 conclave in Nice, France, this week.
The event signals a deepening of the India-France strategic partnership by integrating deep-tech startups and research institutions into the diplomatic framework. By fostering cross-border investment and innovation, both nations aim to accelerate technological development in critical sectors.
The conclave is a central component of the India-France Year of Innovation 2026. It brings together a diverse group of participants, including researchers, investors, and institutions to strengthen technical ties between the two countries [1].
According to reports, the event features 120 startups [1]. The gathering also includes more than 15 premier institutions [1]. This collaboration is designed to position Indian deep-tech firms within the broader European market and encourage new investment partnerships [2].
The event is scheduled to run for three days, from June 14 to June 16, 2026 [3]. During the proceedings, the leaders emphasized the importance of shared innovation as a pillar of their bilateral relations.
President Macron previously highlighted the shifting nature of global technology. "The question is no longer whether India innovates – it is 'who will innovate with India?'" Macron said [4].
The initiative focuses on moving beyond traditional trade agreements to create a living ecosystem of innovation. This approach allows startups and academic institutions to collaborate directly on high-tech solutions, ranging from aerospace to green energy, without the usual bureaucratic delays associated with state-level treaties.
“"The question is no longer whether India innovates – it is 'who will innovate with India?'"”
The Bharat Innovates 2026 conclave represents a shift in the India-France relationship from traditional defense and diplomatic cooperation toward a technology-driven economic alliance. By focusing on deep-tech startups and academic institutions, both nations are attempting to secure their positions in the global supply chain for emerging technologies, reducing reliance on other major powers while leveraging India's scale and France's research infrastructure.
